Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze Recipe
If you are craving a dish that combines the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, then you have to try this Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze Recipe. This irresistible appetizer features thick slices of golden, squeaky halloumi cheese that get beautifully charred on the grill, then get drenched in a luscious glaze made with honey, bright lime juice, zesty lime zest, and a kick of chili flakes. Every bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors that will make this one of your favorite quick yet impressive dishes to serve anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about this recipe is how few and simple the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the complex flavor profile and vibrant look of the dish.
- 8 ounces halloumi cheese: Choose good-quality halloumi sliced into 1/2-inch thick slabs to get that perfect grill-ready texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to lightly brush the cheese for crisp, golden grill marks without sticking.
- 3 tablespoons honey: Brings natural sweetness that balances the spice and tang beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Adds refreshing acidity to brighten the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: Elevates the citrus flavor with fragrant oils just under the peel.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes: Provides a gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a lovely smoky depth that complements the grilled cheese.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without making the dish too salty.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: For a fresh, herbal garnish that adds color and aroma.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill and Cheese
Start by preheating your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Meanwhile, brush both sides of the halloumi slices lightly with olive oil. This step helps the cheese develop beautiful golden-brown grill marks and prevents sticking – plus it adds a subtle richness.
Step 2: Grill the Halloumi
Place the halloumi slices onto the hot grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a gorgeous char that crisps the outside just right while keeping the inside soft and squeaky – that signature halloumi texture that makes each bite so enjoyable.
Step 3: Make the Honey Lime Chili Glaze
While the cheese grills, combine the honey, fresh lime juice, lime zest, chili flakes, smoked paprika, and salt in a small saucepan. Warm the mixture over low heat for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously until the glaze is smooth and has loosened slightly so it’s easy to drizzle.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Transfer the perfectly grilled halloumi slices onto a serving plate and generously drizzle the warm honey lime chili glaze over them. Finish off by sprinkling the chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness and an inviting pop of green.
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped cilantro is a fantastic garnish that adds herbaceous aroma and vibrant color. For a little extra crunch and flavor, consider finishing with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed pistachios, which would add a lovely nutty contrast.
Side Dishes
This grilled halloumi dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Think grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers, crisp green salads with citrusy dressings, or warm flatbreads to sop up every last bit of the luscious glaze. The versatility makes it a delightful companion to fresh, summery plates.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping appetizer platter, arrange the glazed halloumi atop a bed of mixed greens with grilled peaches or figs. Alternatively, skewer the halloumi slices with chunks of pineapple and red onion, then grill and glaze right on the skewers for an easy-to-eat party treat. Presentation is as fun as the flavors here!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the grilled halloumi and glaze in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cheese will keep well for up to 3 days, but to maintain the freshest texture, it’s best enjoyed within this window.
Freezing
Halloumi doesn’t freeze particularly well because its unique texture can change. For the best taste and experience, it’s recommended to avoid freezing this dish. Instead, enjoy it fresh whenever possible.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the grilled halloumi in a nonstick pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through and slightly crisp again. Warm the honey lime chili glaze separately and drizzle right before serving to keep its shiny, luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a regular grill instead of a grill pan?
Absolutely! An outdoor grill works beautifully for this recipe and imparts even more wonderful smoky flavor to the halloumi. Just be sure to oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
Is halloumi cheese vegetarian?
Traditional halloumi is made with animal rennet, but many brands offer vegetarian versions made with microbial or vegetable rennet. Always check the label if you prefer strictly vegetarian cheese.
How spicy is the honey lime chili glaze?
The chili flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the sweetness and tang. You can easily adjust the amount of chili flakes to your heat preference, making it milder or spicier as you like.
Can I substitute honey in the glaze?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a plant-based substitute that still brings the sweet balance to the glaze with a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or anyone looking for a tasty gluten-free appetizer.
Final Thoughts
If you want to impress guests with a dish that is quick to make but absolutely bursting with flavor, do give this Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze Recipe a try. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy and fresh, yet is simple enough for any home cook to master. Once you taste the combination of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy all at once on that delightful cheese, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
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Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This simple and flavorful recipe for Grilled Halloumi with Honey Lime Chili Glaze offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes. The halloumi cheese is grilled to golden perfection and topped with a warm glaze made from honey, fresh lime juice, chili flakes, and smoked paprika, creating an irresistible Mediterranean appetizer.
Ingredients
Halloumi and Marinade
- 8 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slabs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Honey Lime Chili Glaze
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjusted to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough for perfect grill marks and even cooking.
- Prepare the Halloumi: Lightly brush both sides of the halloumi slices with olive oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a golden crust on the grill.
- Grill the Halloumi: Place the halloumi slices on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown grill marks have formed and the cheese is warm and slightly softened.
- Make the Honey Lime Chili Glaze: While the cheese is grilling, combine honey, fresh lime juice, lime zest, chili flakes, smoked paprika, and salt in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the glaze is smooth and loosened slightly.
- Glaze the Halloumi: Transfer the grilled halloumi onto a serving plate and drizzle generously with the warm honey lime chili glaze, ensuring even coverage for the best flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the glazed halloumi slices for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy on the outside.
Notes
- Halloumi is best served hot to retain its crisp exterior and soft interior.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or warm flatbreads for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
