Crispy Halloumi Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant, refreshing, and perfectly balanced dish, this Crispy Halloumi Salad with salmon is an ideal choice. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, this salad combines the salty richness of crispy halloumi with the sweetness of ripe peaches, the freshness of cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds. Topped off with a zesty lime-honey dressing infused with chili flakes, basil, and mint, this salad is a burst of flavors and textures in every bite. It’s a perfect option for a light lunch or a side dish for a more substantial meal.

Why You’ll Love This Salad:

This crispy halloumi salad is the epitome of summer dining. It brings together the best of sweet and savory in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing. The halloumi provides a salty, chewy bite, while the caramelized peach adds a burst of natural sweetness. The addition of cucumbers and tomatoes keeps things light and fresh, while the sesame seeds offer a lovely nutty crunch. The lime-honey dressing with fresh basil and mint takes it to the next level, adding brightness and complexity to every bite.

Ingredients Notes:

• Halloumi: A semi-hard, salty cheese that holds its shape when fried, providing a crispy, golden exterior and a soft interior. Perfect for adding texture and richness to the salad.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juicy texture offer a refreshing contrast to the salty halloumi. Halving them allows for better distribution throughout the salad.
• Cucumber: Adds a cool, crisp bite to balance the heavier elements like halloumi and peaches.
• Peach: Choose a firm yet ripe peach. When lightly fried, the natural sugars caramelize, enhancing the fruit’s sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the savory cheese.
• Sesame Seeds (white and black): The mix of white and black sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal, giving the salad an extra crunch.
• Salmon (optional): Grilled or baked salmon pairs well as a protein, complementing the salty and sweet elements of the salad.

Dressing Notes:

• Olive Oil: A smooth base for the dressing that helps blend the other flavors together.
• Lime: The citrusy zest brightens the dish and balances the sweetness from the honey and peaches.
• Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing, complementing the fruit and balancing the spice from the chili flakes.
• Chili Flakes: A mild heat to add depth and contrast to the sweet and tangy elements.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning to bring out the flavors in the salad.
• Fresh Basil & Mint Leaves: Fresh herbs that infuse the dressing with an aromatic, herbal note, enhancing the overall freshness of the salad.

How To Make Crispy Halloumi Salad

1. Prepare the Halloumi:

Start by cutting your halloumi into bite-sized cubes. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add the halloumi cubes. Fry them for a few minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy on the outside. The halloumi should develop a beautiful, crunchy exterior while remaining soft inside. Once crispy, set the halloumi aside.

2. Prepare the Peach:

In the same pan, after removing the halloumi, add the peach slices. Lightly fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they caramelize slightly. This step enhances the peach’s natural sweetness and adds a subtle warmth to the salad.

3. Slice and Prepare the Vegetables:

Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the cucumber. These ingredients will bring freshness and crunch to your salad, balancing the richness of the halloumi and peaches.

4. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, and honey. Add a pinch of chili flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Finally, stir in the chopped basil and mint, which will infuse the dressing with fresh, aromatic notes.

5. Assemble the Salad:

In a large salad bowl, combine the crispy halloumi cubes, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, fried peach slices, and sesame seeds. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Toss gently to combine all the flavors.

6. Serve:

Serve the salad fresh, either on its own or paired with grilled or baked salmon for a heartier meal. The contrast between the crispy halloumi, juicy peaches, and tender salmon creates a delightful symphony of flavors and textures.

Tips for Success:

• Halloumi: Ensure your pan is hot before frying the halloumi for that perfect golden crust. Avoid moving the cubes around too much while frying, allowing them to develop a crisp exterior.
• Peach: Opt for firm yet ripe peaches to hold their shape during cooking.
• Dressing: The lime-honey dressing strikes a delicate balance between sweet, tangy, and spicy. Adjust the chili flakes based on your heat preference, and feel free to add more lime juice for extra tang.

Other Salads You’ll Love

Caesar Salad Recipe

The Best Chickpea Salad

Smashed Potato Salad