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Halloumi, Watermelon, and Mint Salad

Shruthi
Halloumi, Watermelon, and Mint Salad combines sweet watermelon with salty cheese.Grilled halloumi develops a delicious golden exterior.Fresh mint provides cooling herbal freshness.Lime juice adds bright acidity to the dressing.Olive oil creates a smooth and flavorful finish.This colorful salad makes a refreshing summer dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Course Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Cypriot-Inspired, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 330 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 8 ounces halloumi cheese
  • 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
  • ½ cup fresh mint leaves
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives, optional
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds or pistachios, optional

For the Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of salt, optional

Instructions
 

  • Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes or triangles.Remove excess liquid by gently patting the pieces dry.
    Place the watermelon in a large serving bowl.
  • Slice the halloumi into approximately ½-inch thick pieces.Pat the cheese dry with paper towels.
    This helps the halloumi develop better browning during cooking.
  • Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.Add the halloumi without overcrowding the pan.
    Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes per side.Turn when the cheese develops a golden-brown surface.
    Remove the halloumi and let it cool slightly.
  • Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, and honey.Add black pepper and a small pinch of salt if needed.
    Taste and adjust the acidity according to preference.
  • Add sliced red onion and fresh mint to the watermelon.Add Kalamata olives and optional pumpkin seeds or pistachios.
    Arrange the warm halloumi pieces over the watermelon.
  • Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.Toss gently if desired, or leave the ingredients layered for presentation.
    Serve immediately while the halloumi remains warm.

Notes

  • Use seedless watermelon for convenient preparation.
  • Choose firm halloumi for better grilling results.
  • Pat watermelon dry to prevent a watery salad.
  • Fresh mint provides the best flavor.
  • Lime can be replaced with fresh lemon juice.
  • Pistachios add excellent crunch and richness.
  • Halloumi becomes firmer as it cools.
  • Serve soon after assembling for the best texture.

 

Keyword grilled halloumi salad, halloumi watermelon salad, Mediterranean salad, summer watermelon salad, watermelon halloumi