Grilled Halloumi and Veggie Pita Kebabs
Enjoy the delightful flavors of Grilled Halloumi and Veggie Pita Kebabs, a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for lunch or as a light snack. Made with hearty slices of halloumi cheese that grill beautifully without melting, these kebabs are traditionally enjoyed in Cyprus and Greece. This dish comes together with fresh, colorful vegetables, crispy salad leaves, and a drizzle of creamy tahini dressing, all encased in warm pita bread. Whether you're enjoying a sunny day outdoors or need a quick meal at home, these kebabs are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and textures.
1-2
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pita bread
2 (Whole)
Halloumi cheese
200 g (Sliced into 1/4 inch thick slices)
Extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (N/A)
Garlic clove
1 (Finely chopped)
Dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Lemon
1/2 (Juice extracted)
Salad leaves
100 g (Your choice, washed and dried)
Cucumber
1/2 small (Sliced)
Tomatoes
2 (Sliced)
Red pepper
1 (Sliced into rings)
Red onion
1/2 small (Sliced into rings)
Tahini
25 ml (For dressing (optional, other dressings can be used))
Instructions
1
Start by cutting the halloumi cheese into thick slices, approximately 1/4 inch thick for optimal grilling.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, dried oregano, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
3
Soak the halloumi slices in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the cheese.
4
Preheat a griddle pan until it's very hot. Add the halloumi slices to the pan and grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a golden-brown color. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn.
5
While the halloumi is grilling, warm the pita breads under the grill or in the toaster according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once warm, carefully slice off the top edge of each pita to create a pocket.
6
Once the halloumi is ready, begin assembling your kebabs. Start by placing a layer of salad leaves inside each pita, followed by slices of cucumber, tomato, and red pepper.
7
Add the grilled halloumi slices on top, and layer in more salad and veggies as desired until the pita is generously stuffed.
8
Serve each kebab with tahini dressing on the side, or drizzle it over the ingredients as you build each pita kebab for a burst of flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is halloumi?
Halloumi is a semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk, known for its high melting point which makes it perfect for grilling.
Can I substitute the halloumi with another cheese?
You can use paneer or other grilling-specific cheeses, but halloumi is unique for its salty flavor and texture that doesn't melt away on the heat.
How thick should I slice the halloumi?
For optimal grilling results, slice the halloumi into pieces approximately 1/4 inch thick.
How long does the halloumi need to marinate?
The halloumi should soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow the lemon, garlic, and herbs to infuse the cheese.
What is in the marinade for this recipe?
The marinade consists of extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, dried oregano, and black pepper.
Do I need a special grill to cook the halloumi?
A griddle pan is recommended to get those classic grill marks, but a standard non-stick frying pan will also work well.
How long do I cook the halloumi on the pan?
Grill the slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden-brown.
What is the best way to warm the pita bread?
You can warm the pita breads under a kitchen grill or in a toaster according to the package instructions.
How do I open the pita bread without it breaking?
Warming the pita first makes it more flexible; then, carefully slice off the top edge to create a pocket for the fillings.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, you would need to replace the halloumi with a vegan grilling cheese alternative and ensure your pita and dressing are plant-based.
What kind of salad leaves should I use?
You can use any salad leaves of your choice, such as romaine, arugula, or mixed baby greens.
What is tahini?
Tahini is a creamy condiment made from toasted ground hulled sesame seeds, commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Are there other dressing options besides tahini?
Yes, you can use tzatziki, hummus, or a simple garlic yogurt dressing as alternatives.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian as it uses halloumi cheese as the primary protein.
Can I add more vegetables to the kebab?
Certainly! Grilled zucchini, eggplant, or shredded carrots would be excellent additions to the pita pocket.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 1 to 2 servings.
Is this dish gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because of the pita bread. You can make it gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free pita alternative.
Can I prepare this meal in advance?
You can prepare the marinade and chop the vegetables in advance, but the halloumi is best served immediately after grilling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat the halloumi briefly before serving.
Can I cook the halloumi on an outdoor BBQ?
Yes, halloumi is excellent for BBQ grilling; just ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
What if I don't have fresh oregano?
The recipe calls for dried oregano, but if you have fresh, use about three times the amount as it is less concentrated than dried.
Can I use whole wheat pita bread?
Yes, whole wheat pita bread works perfectly and adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it features fresh vegetables, heart-healthy olive oil, and protein-rich cheese, making it a balanced light meal.
Can I add a protein like chicken to this?
Yes, grilled chicken breast or chickpeas would complement the flavors of the halloumi and veggies well.
Where does halloumi cheese originate?
Halloumi cheese is traditionally associated with Cyprus and is also very popular in Greece.
What type of cucumber should I use?
English or Persian cucumbers are recommended as they have thinner skins and fewer seeds.
Is this dish spicy?
No, this dish is not spicy. If you prefer heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the marinade or a spicy sauce to the pita.
Why is my halloumi squeaky?
The 'squeak' is a natural characteristic of halloumi's protein structure and is a sign of its unique texture.
Can I skip the garlic in the marinade?
Yes, if you are sensitive to garlic or don't have it on hand, you can omit it and still enjoy a delicious kebab.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, lime juice can provide a similar acidity, though it will slightly alter the traditional Mediterranean flavor profile.