A vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad featuring golden grilled halloumi, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, fresh herbs, and sweet-tart pomegranate seeds—perfect for summer lunches or light dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This grilled halloumi salad is the perfect balance of savory, fresh, and tangy flavors. The salty richness of halloumi pairs beautifully with the burst of sweetness from pomegranate seeds and the freshness of herbs and vegetables. It is quick to prepare, visually stunning, and ideal as a light main course or as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood. Whether for entertaining or a simple weekday meal, this salad adds elegance and bold flavor to the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salad:

• 7 oz (200g) halloumi cheese, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced into half-moons
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses (or balsamic glaze)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Brush halloumi slices with olive oil and grill for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, pomegranate seeds, basil, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Top with grilled halloumi and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people as a main dish or 4 as a side dish.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6 minutes
Total time: 16 minutes

Variations

• Replace pomegranate seeds with sliced strawberries or grapes when pomegranates are out of season.
• Use fresh mint leaves in place of or alongside basil for a refreshing flavor.
• Swap cucumbers with arugula or spinach for a leafy green base.
• Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of pomegranate molasses for a different tangy-sweet profile.

storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as halloumi tastes best when warm and freshly grilled. If storing, keep the salad vegetables and dressing separate in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Grill the halloumi just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor. Avoid reheating halloumi in the microwave, as it can become rubbery; instead, reheat slices in a dry skillet over medium heat until warmed.

FAQs

Can I use another cheese instead of halloumi?

Yes, you can use paneer or queso blanco, though the unique salty flavor of halloumi makes this dish special.

What is pomegranate molasses, and where can I find it?

Pomegranate molasses is a thick syrup made from reduced pomegranate juice. It can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead, but grill the halloumi right before serving for the best texture.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian. If using honey in the dressing, replace it with maple syrup to make it vegan-friendly (with a dairy-free cheese alternative).

Can I grill the halloumi on an outdoor barbecue?

Yes, halloumi grills beautifully on an outdoor barbecue. Use a lightly oiled grill to prevent sticking.

What can I serve alongside this salad?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, or seafood, or it can be served with warm pita bread.

Can I add grains to make it more filling?

Yes, adding cooked quinoa, bulgur, or couscous makes it a heartier meal.

How do I prevent halloumi from sticking to the pan?

Lightly oil both the halloumi slices and the pan, and ensure the skillet or grill is preheated before cooking.

Can I store leftover halloumi after grilling?

Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but reheat in a skillet rather than a microwave to preserve its texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

Grilled halloumi salad with pomegranate and fresh herbs is a delightful dish that combines salty, tangy, and fresh flavors in perfect harmony. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, it is ideal for warm-weather dining or as a vibrant side dish for any meal. With its Mediterranean influence and versatile variations, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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