Now THIS is the cheese that can truly level up any side salad! Halloumi is a Mediterranean cheese that is mellow in flavor and great for grilling or pan frying because it doesn't melt. Instead, you get a crisp exterior and a soft, gooey interior that has a slight feta-like tang. Served over arugula with tomatoes, this salad is ultra satisfying and delicious.

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Ingredients
- Arugula lettuce
- Halloumi cheese
- Roma tomatoes
- Salt
- Pepper
Dressing
- Lemon vinaigrette or Greek vinaigrette
Substitutions
- Tomatoes - Try campari (pictured above) or cherry tomatoes instead of roma.
Variations
- Nutrition - Add more vegetables for extra health benefits. Cucumbers, red onion, garbanzo beans, and kalamata olives would make a great addition.
Equipment
- Salad bowl
- Salad tongs
- Colander
- Oil and vinegar dispensers
- Knife
- Frying pan or cast iron skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
Storage
Store salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator without dressing for 2-3 days. If the salad is moist from being washed, place a paper towel on top of it to draw out the moisture.
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Buy pre-washed and ready to eat lettuce to save time.
Have leftover ingredients?
- Use up leftover arugula by adding it to a grain bowl, placing it on top of pizza, or as a base for any small side salad.
- For a simple and tasty appetizer, pan fry leftover Halloumi and drizzle it with honey.
- Serve leftover Halloumi on a Mediterranean platter with pita bread, hummus, kalamata olives, and other vegetables.
In the mood for a similar dish?
Try these other salad ideas:
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FAQ
Why is halloumi cheese squeaky?
Take a bite of Halloumi for the first time and you may notice a slight squeak when chewing. This has to do with the protein structure of the cheese when heated, and it is also what gives Halloumi its springy texture.
📖 Recipe
Halloumi Side Salad
Equipment
- Salad bowl
- Salad tongs
- Colander
- Oil and vinegar dispensers
- Knife
- Frying pan or cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- 5 oz Arugula lettuce
- 3 Roma tomatoes
- 8 oz Halloumi cheese
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- Salt (if desired)
- ¼ teaspoon Pepper (or to taste)
Dressing
- 4 tablespoon Lemon vinaigrette or Greek vinaigrette
Instructions
- Wash lettuce and set it aside to drain in a colander.
- Cut halloumi cheese into cubes. Using a cast iron skillet or fry pan, sear halloumi cheese in a small amount of olive oil on medium heat until crisp 1-2 minutes. Remove from burner.
- Cut tomatoes into sections.
- Prepare salad with all ingredients. Drizzle dressing of choice over the top.
- Toss and serve. Add more pepper (if desired).
Food Safety
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
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