We love halloumi for its tangy, salty flavor, but the magic happens when this semi-firm Greek cheese meets a bit of heat. Whether grilled or pan-seared, halloumi holds its own against high temps, the crust turning golden brown and the interior becoming soft and chewy. Get to know one of the most grill-worthy cheeses. Cut 8 ounces halloumi cheese into ½-inch cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel. Place 2 tablespoons olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the cheese and sear until browned on both sides and soft on the inside, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and let cool.
Halloumi takes well to the grill, too. Prepare a charcoal grill for medium-hot, direct heat or heat a gas grill to medium-high. Oil the grate, cut the cheese into ½-inch slabs instead of cubes, and grill until the bottom has a crispy brown crust with grill marks. Flip and repeat on the other side. For a tasty appetizer, toss grilled halloumi with diced red onion and watermelon and garnish with fresh mint.
This article appears in June 2015.