Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors. Our Grilled Pear Halloumi Salad is that magical recipe that bridges the gap between healthy eating and gourmet indulgence. With caramelized pears, crispy golden halloumi, and peppery arugula, this dish is about to become your new obsession – a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and smoky that will elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pears, sliced
- 200g halloumi cheese, sliced
- 4 cups arugula
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash the pears thoroughly, then slice them into thin wedges. Set aside.
- Next, slice the halloumi cheese into 1/2-inch thick slices. This thickness will help the cheese hold its shape while grilling.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the arugula with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat the arugula evenly. This will serve as the base for your salad.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. If using a grill pan, lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill is hot, place the pear slices on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Remove the pears from the grill and set aside.
- Next, place the halloumi slices on the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. Be careful not to overcook, as halloumi can become too soft.
- While the halloumi is grilling, prepare a small bowl to mix the dressing. Combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of honey. Whisk together until well blended.
- Once the halloumi is grilled, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, cut it into smaller pieces if desired.
- To assemble the salad, place the arugula mixture on a serving platter or individual plates. Top with the grilled pear slices and halloumi pieces.
- Drizzle the honey-olive oil dressing over the salad, ensuring an even distribution. Add additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Serve immediately while the halloumi is warm and the salad is fresh. Enjoy your Grilled Pear Halloumi Salad!
Tips
- Choose firm, slightly underripe pears for grilling to ensure they hold their shape and caramelize beautifully.
- Pat your halloumi dry before grilling to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Use a non-stick grill pan or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet if you don't have an outdoor grill.
- Don't walk away while grilling – halloumi and pears can burn quickly due to their high sugar content.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or a handful of toasted pine nuts to your salad.
- Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the warm, crispy halloumi and fresh, vibrant arugula.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg
