Crispy Air-Fried Halloumi with Honey Drizzle

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This air fryer halloumi is the perfect blend of crispy and gooey, delivering a delicious texture in every bite. Its crispy golden exterior pairs beautifully with the soft, slightly chewy inside, offering a truly satisfying experience. Topping it with a drizzle of honey adds an enticing sweet and salty contrast that will elevate your appetizer game.

Whether you’re serving it as a snack, a salad topping, or alongside a mezze platter, air-fried halloumi is a versatile addition to any meal. Plus, it’s ready in just 10 minutes with minimal ingredients, making it an easy yet impressive dish to whip up for friends and family. Enjoy the Mediterranean flavors right at home with this quick and healthy recipe!

Full Recipe:

1 (8 oz) block halloumi cheese
Olive oil spray or 1 teaspoon olive oil

Directions:

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
Cut the halloumi block into ½-inch thick slices. If using olive oil, lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. If using a spray, lightly spray both sides.
Arrange the halloumi slices evenly in the preheated air fryer basket without overlapping.
Air fry at 380°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through using tongs for even cooking. They should be golden and crispy, not burnt. For extra crispiness, add 1 to 2 additional minutes of cooking time.
Serve immediately, either on its own or with a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch.

Prep Time: 2 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes

Kcal: 71 kcal | Servings: 10 slices

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Halloumi Recipe

Gooey & Crispy Texture: The unique texture of halloumi, which becomes soft on the inside and crispy on the outside when air-fried, is simply irresistible.
Quick & Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Healthy Alternative: Unlike traditional fried halloumi, this air fryer version requires very little oil, making it a healthier option.
Diet-Friendly: Halloumi cheese is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly, making this recipe suitable for various dietary preferences.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a standalone snack with a drizzle of honey, add it to salads, wraps, or grain bowls, or include it on a mezze platter.

What Makes Halloumi Unique?

Halloumi cheese, often referred to as “grilling cheese,” originates from Cyprus and is traditionally made from sheep and goat’s milk. It has a high melting point, which means it doesn’t melt into a gooey mess when exposed to heat. Instead, it forms a delicious, crispy crust while remaining soft inside. Its salty and slightly tangy flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Air-Fried Halloumi

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures that the halloumi starts cooking evenly and crisps up nicely.
Pat Dry: Before air frying, pat the halloumi slices dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step helps achieve a crispier texture.
Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the halloumi slices halfway through cooking ensures even browning and crispiness on both sides.
Serve Immediately: Air-fried halloumi is best enjoyed hot and crispy right out of the air fryer. If left to cool, it can become chewy.

Serving Suggestions

Appetizer: Serve the crispy halloumi slices with a drizzle of honey and a side of fresh grapes for a sweet and salty treat.
Salad Topper: Add air-fried halloumi to salads for extra protein and flavor. It pairs well with leafy greens, roasted vegetables, and grains like quinoa or farro.
Mezze Platter: Include it in a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter with hummus, tzatziki, olives, and pita bread.
Wraps & Sandwiches: Use the halloumi as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. It adds a delightful cheesy flavor that complements fresh veggies and sauces.
Breakfast: Enjoy it with eggs for a protein-rich breakfast, or serve it with avocado toast.

Nutritional Information

Halloumi cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, with each serving providing approximately 5g of protein and 227mg of calcium. It is also relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for low-carb and keto diets. However, it is relatively high in sodium, so it is best enjoyed in moderation.

Customizing the Recipe

Spices & Herbs: Sprinkle halloumi slices with your favorite herbs or spices, such as oregano, paprika, or za’atar, before air frying for an extra flavor boost.
Sweet & Savory Toppings: Beyond honey, you can drizzle the halloumi with balsamic glaze, serve it with fresh figs, or pair it with a tangy fruit compote.
Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can grill or pan-fry the halloumi on medium-high heat for similar results.

What is Halloumi?

Halloumi is a traditional cheese from Cyprus, commonly made from sheep’s and goat’s milk. It is often referred to as “grilling cheese” because of its high melting point, which allows it to be grilled, fried, or air-fried without melting into a liquid state. This unique characteristic makes halloumi an excellent choice for cooking methods that require higher temperatures, resulting in a cheese that becomes crispy on the outside while maintaining a firm, slightly chewy texture on the inside.

Halloumi’s Nutritional Benefits

High in Protein: Halloumi is a great source of protein, offering approximately 5 grams per serving. This makes it an excellent addition to vegetarian meals, helping to meet daily protein needs.
Rich in Calcium: With about 227mg of calcium per serving, halloumi supports bone health and plays a role in various bodily functions.
Low in Carbohydrates: Halloumi cheese contains minimal carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
Moderate in Fat: While halloumi is relatively high in fat (6g per serving), it mainly consists of saturated fats due to the sheep’s and goat’s milk. Moderation is key when incorporating halloumi into a balanced diet.
Sodium Content: Halloumi is naturally salty, so it’s higher in sodium. People watching their salt intake should enjoy it in moderation or rinse it under cold water to reduce its saltiness before cooking.

Cooking Halloumi: Air Fryer vs. Other Methods

Air Frying: Air frying halloumi is one of the healthiest ways to prepare it, requiring minimal oil. This method gives the cheese a crispy outer layer and a soft interior without the need for deep frying. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy halloumi with less added fat.
Grilling: Grilling halloumi is another popular method that brings out its smoky flavor. Place slices directly on the grill for a few minutes until grill marks appear. Grilled halloumi is perfect for summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings.
Pan-Frying: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can pan-fry halloumi slices in a non-stick skillet with a small amount of olive oil. Cook until golden brown on both sides. This method results in a slightly richer taste due to the added oil.

Delicious Ways to Serve Air-Fried Halloumi

With Sweet Additions: Drizzle honey, maple syrup, or pomegranate molasses over the hot halloumi for a delightful contrast between the salty cheese and the sweetness of the syrup.
In Salads: Air-fried halloumi adds a savory, chewy element to salads. Pair it with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, nuts, and fruits like apples or pomegranate seeds for a balanced dish.
In Grain Bowls: Top quinoa, bulgur, or couscous bowls with crispy halloumi slices, roasted vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a hearty and nutritious meal.
On Toast: Serve halloumi on toasted sourdough bread with avocado, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a delicious brunch option.
With Mediterranean Dips: Pair the halloumi with hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer platter.
With Fresh Fruits: Serve halloumi alongside fresh figs, grapes, or watermelon for a refreshing and elegant appetizer or snack.

How to Make the Recipe Vegan

While halloumi is not vegan, there are plant-based cheese alternatives that mimic its firm texture and grilling properties. Look for vegan halloumi-style cheese made from ingredients like coconut oil, tapioca starch, and plant proteins. These can be prepared in the same way as traditional halloumi, offering a similar texture and taste suitable for those following a vegan diet.

Enhancing the Flavor

Spices & Seasonings: Before air frying, sprinkle halloumi slices with spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or sumac for an extra layer of flavor.
Marinating: For a more complex taste, marinate the halloumi slices in olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for 30 minutes before cooking. This step infuses the cheese with aromatic flavors and makes it even more delicious.
Toppings & Garnishes: After air frying, garnish the halloumi with fresh herbs such as chopped mint, parsley, or basil. A sprinkle of chili flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also enhance the flavor profile.

Health Considerations

While halloumi is a nutritious option for many diets, it’s important to consider portion sizes due to its high sodium and fat content. Pairing halloumi with fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can help balance its richness and create a well-rounded meal. For those who need to reduce sodium intake, soaking halloumi in water for a few minutes before cooking can help decrease its saltiness.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing: Air-fried halloumi is best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the halloumi back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until it is warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the cheese rubbery.

Pairing Suggestions

Beverages: The salty and savory flavor of halloumi pairs wonderfully with light, crisp beverages. Consider serving it with a refreshing glass of white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a light beer. For non-alcoholic options, herbal iced tea or sparkling water with a splash of citrus complements the cheese well.
Side Dishes: Complement the air-fried halloumi with Mediterranean side dishes like tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or a simple Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onion.

Fun Facts About Halloumi

Cultural Heritage: Halloumi has a long history and is a staple in Cypriot cuisine. It’s often enjoyed as part of a traditional mezze spread.
Unique Squeaky Texture: Halloumi is sometimes called a “squeaky cheese” because of the sound it makes against the teeth when you bite into it.
Seasonal Availability: While halloumi is available year-round, it is particularly popular during the summer months when grilling and light, fresh meals are in high demand.

Conclusion

Air fryer halloumi is a quick, delicious, and healthier way to enjoy this unique cheese. With its crispy exterior and soft interior, it’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or versatile addition to salads and wraps. Halloumi’s high protein and calcium content make it a nutritious choice, while its distinct flavor and texture add a delightful twist to any meal. Whether drizzled with honey or paired with Mediterranean sides, this air-fried halloumi recipe is sure to impress.