If you’ve never grilled halloumi before, you’re in for a treat.
These Grilled Halloumi Skewers are crisp on the outside, warm and chewy on the inside, and bursting with tangy lemon and fresh thyme.
A crowd-pleasing appetizer or light meal that’s totally vegetarian and grill-ready.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to make – Ready in under 30 minutes.
Grill-friendly – Halloumi doesn’t melt, so it’s perfect for skewers.
Fresh and zesty – With lemon, garlic, and thyme in the marinade.
Impressive, yet easy – Great for BBQs, parties, or weeknight dinners.
Customizable – Add veggies or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
Ingredient Highlights
Halloumi cheese – The star of the dish. Its firm texture makes it ideal for grilling.
Lemon – Adds brightness and helps caramelize the edges.
Cherry tomatoes & red onion – Juicy and colorful for added flavor and texture.
Simple marinade – Olive oil, garlic, thyme, lemon juice, and honey.
Optional garnish – Thyme sprigs or chili flakes to finish it off.
Tips Before You Start
Use metal or soaked wooden skewers to avoid burning.
Pat the halloumi dry before marinating for better browning.
Grill on medium-high heat to get those char marks without burning.
Don’t over-marinate – 15–30 minutes is plenty.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi Skewers
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Thread cubes of halloumi, lemon slices, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
Brush with the prepared marinade.
Step 3: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high.
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and slightly charred.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to a platter.
Garnish with thyme sprigs, olive oil drizzle, or red pepper flakes.
Serve immediately.
What to Serve It With
Pita bread and hummus or tzatziki
Greek salad or couscous
A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water
As part of a mezze platter with olives and dips
Variations & Swaps
Add zucchini or bell pepper for more veggies.
Use lime juice and cilantro instead of lemon and thyme for a different twist.
Skip honey for a fully savory version.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for extra depth.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Prep ahead: Assemble skewers and refrigerate up to 6 hours before grilling.
Leftovers: Store in airtight container up to 2 days. Reheat in skillet.
Not freezer-friendly: Halloumi may change texture when frozen.
FAQs
Can I use another cheese instead of halloumi?
Not really. Halloumi is one of the few cheeses that holds up to grilling.
Can these be made on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes! Just preheat and lightly oil the pan.
Is it okay to skip the tomatoes or onions?
Definitely. Customize the skewers to your liking.
Can I make these vegan?
You can try using extra-firm tofu, but it won’t be quite the same.
Does halloumi need to be marinated?
It’s not required, but marinating adds flavor and a nice glaze when grilled.
Are these good for meal prep?
They’re best served fresh, but leftovers make great wraps or salads.
Final Thoughts
These Grilled Halloumi Skewers are a summer staple in my kitchen.
The crisp cheese, zesty lemon, and aromatic thyme hit all the right notes.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for something quick and meatless, this is a recipe that always delivers — fast, fun, and full of flavor.
