A Taste of the Mediterranean: Grilled Halloumi and Zucchini Skewers with a Lemony Herb Dressing

Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I am delighted to share a recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Imagine yourself on a sun-kissed balcony overlooking azure waters, savoring each bite of these Grilled Halloumi and Zucchini Skewers, perfectly accentuated by a zesty lemony herb dressing. This dish embodies the essence of summer, no matter the season.

Halloumi, the star ingredient, is a fantastic cheese known for its unique ability to hold its shape when grilled. This quality makes it the perfect companion for our fresh vegetables; it transforms a simple skewer into something truly extraordinary. With juicy zucchini, crisp red bell peppers, and sweet red onions, these skewers are a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

I adore using my grill for these because it imparts a delightful smokiness that reminds me of warm Mediterranean evenings. However, a good grill pan on your stove will do the trick if the weather isn’t playing ball. The olive oil and lemon juice dressing ties everything together with its tangy, aromatic notes, elevating the skewers to a new level of deliciousness.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. It’s a perfect dish for relaxed family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Even better, you can easily adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or incorporating a handful of cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness.

You’ll find that the ingredients are easy to come by, and the preparation is straightforward, making this a hassle-free way to bring a bit of Mediterranean magic into your home. As you grill these skewers, let the enticing aroma whisk you away to a place where life dances to a slower, sunnier rhythm.

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these Grilled Halloumi and Zucchini Skewers as much as I do. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving—it adds a wonderful freshness. Bon appétit and happy cooking!

Ingredients

– 250g halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
– 1 small red onion, cut into quarters and layers separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Method

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 200°C (390°F), or set up your BBQ for direct cooking.

2. While the grill is heating, prepare the skewers. Thread the halloumi cubes, zucchini rounds, red bell pepper squares, and red onion layers alternately onto the soaked wooden skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

4. Brush the dressing generously over the assembled skewers, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, rotating occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred, and the halloumi has developed a golden crust.

6. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.

7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy immediately for the best flavors and textures.