Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad

This vibrant Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad is a culinary masterpiece, a symphony of textures and flavors that will dance on your palate. Imagine the salty, squeaky halloumi, kissed by the grill and boasting a beautiful golden-brown char. Picture the peppery bite of watercress, its refreshing coolness a perfect foil to the halloumi’s warmth. Then, visualize the medley of juicy oranges, crunchy walnuts, and the creamy tang of a lemon-honey vinaigrette—all working in harmonious concert to create a salad that’s both satisfying and utterly delicious. This recipe is more than just a salad; it’s a culinary experience, perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even a sophisticated starter for a dinner party. Prepare to be amazed by the simple elegance and unforgettable taste of this Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad Recipe

This Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad recipe isn’t just another salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients and a testament to the transformative power of simple cooking techniques. What sets it apart? Let’s delve into the reasons why you’ll fall head-over-heels for this delightful dish:

• Speed and Simplicity: This salad comes together remarkably quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. The grilling time for the halloumi is minimal, and the rest of the assembly is a breeze.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of salty halloumi, peppery watercress, sweet oranges, and crunchy walnuts is a flavor fiesta. The lemon-honey vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully, creating a complex yet balanced taste profile.
• Textural Delight: The interplay of textures is truly captivating. The firm, slightly chewy halloumi contrasts beautifully with the delicate watercress, the juicy orange segments, and the satisfying crunch of the walnuts. This multi-sensory experience elevates the salad to a whole new level.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: This salad is packed with nutrients. Halloumi is a good source of protein, while watercress is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. The oranges contribute vitamin C, and the walnuts offer healthy fats. It’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Versatility: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking, adding or subtracting elements based on your preferences and what’s available. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Why You Should Try This Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad Recipe

In a world saturated with culinary trends, this Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad stands out as a timeless classic with a modern twist. Here’s why you absolutely should try it:

• Impress Your Guests: This salad is visually stunning and incredibly flavorful, guaranteed to impress your friends and family. It’s a perfect dish for both casual and formal gatherings.
• Elevated Everyday Eating: Tired of the same old salad routine? This recipe elevates the humble salad to a culinary masterpiece. It’s a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a satisfying meal.
• Explore New Flavors: If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons, this salad is an excellent starting point. It introduces you to the delightful taste of halloumi and the peppery kick of watercress.
• Easy Adaptability: Easily customizable to dietary needs and preferences. Want a vegan version? Substitute the halloumi with grilled tofu or tempeh. Need gluten-free? Ensure your halloumi is certified gluten-free (most are).
• Year-Round Delight: While watercress is best in the cooler months, this salad can be adapted year-round. Use other greens like spinach or arugula during warmer months.

Ingredients and Utensils for Your Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad

Gathering the right ingredients and utensils is key to the success of this Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad. Let’s get started:

Ingredients:

• 200g Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1cm thick pieces
• 100g Watercress, washed and trimmed
• 1 Orange, segmented
• 50g Walnuts, roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tbsp Honey
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Utensils:

• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Large bowl for salad
• Small bowl for vinaigrette
• Whisk or fork for mixing vinaigrette
• Sharp knife for chopping and segmenting
• Cutting board
• Tongs or spatula for grilling

Detailed Recipe Steps for the Perfect Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad

Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced and delicious Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad:

1. Prepare the Halloumi: Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, add the halloumi slices and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly charred. **Important:** Don’t overcrowd the grill pan; work in batches if necessary. This ensures even grilling and prevents the halloumi from steaming instead of grilling.
2. Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. **Tip:** Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might prefer more honey for extra sweetness or more lemon for a sharper tang.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the watercress, orange segments, and chopped walnuts. **Tip:** Gently toss the ingredients to avoid bruising the watercress.
4. Add the Halloumi: Once the halloumi is grilled, let it cool slightly before adding it to the salad. **Tip:** Cutting the halloumi into smaller pieces after grilling makes it easier to incorporate into the salad.
5. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the lemon-honey vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine. **Important:** Don’t overdress the salad; add more vinaigrette as needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the halloumi’s warm, slightly crispy texture at its best.

Tips and Variations for Your Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad

This Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. Here are some tips and variations to enhance your culinary adventure:

• Add Some Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds can be substituted for or added to the walnuts for extra texture.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the vinaigrette will give it a pleasant kick.
• Herbaceous Infusion: Fresh herbs like mint or dill can be added for an extra layer of flavor. A small amount of finely chopped chives also works well.
• Fruit Variations: Grapefruit or pomegranate seeds can substitute for or complement the oranges.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace halloumi with grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
• Avoid Overcooking: Halloumi burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it while grilling. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s golden brown.
• Dress Just Before Serving: Adding the dressing too early can wilt the watercress. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain its freshness and crispness.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad

This Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly nutritious. Let’s explore the health benefits of its key ingredients:

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving): (Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 350-400
• Protein: 15-20g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g

Halloumi: A good source of protein, calcium, and other essential minerals. It’s also relatively low in lactose compared to other cheeses.

Watercress: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as various antioxidants. It’s known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.

Oranges: An excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function.

Walnuts: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They contribute to heart health and brain function.

This salad is a balanced meal offering a good source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

FAQ: Your Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad recipe:

• Q: Can I prepare the salad ahead of time? A: It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the watercress and the warm, slightly crispy texture of the halloumi.
• Q: What if I don’t have a grill pan? A: You can pan-fry the halloumi in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.
• Q: Can I use other types of cheese? A: While halloumi is ideal for its grilling properties, you can experiment with other firm cheeses, such as feta or paneer. Keep in mind that cooking times may need adjustment.
• Q: What if I don’t like walnuts? A: Feel free to substitute them with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or even seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• Q: My vinaigrette is too thick/thin. How can I adjust it? A: If it’s too thick, add a little more olive oil or lemon juice. If it’s too thin, add a tiny pinch of Dijon mustard to help thicken it.
• Q: My halloumi is burning too quickly. A: Reduce the heat on your grill pan or move the halloumi to a cooler section of the grill. Ensure your grill pan is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

Conclusion: Your Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad Journey Awaits

This Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen. The combination of salty, grilled halloumi, peppery watercress, sweet oranges, and crunchy walnuts, all perfectly balanced by a zesty lemon-honey vinaigrette, creates a flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and satisfying. It’s a recipe that’s easy to follow, incredibly versatile, and guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with deliciousness and healthy goodness. Don’t forget to share your creations with us! Comment below and let us know how your Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad turned out. And for more delicious recipes, check out our extensive collection on OviaRecipes! You can also learn more about the nutritional benefits of different ingredients on Wikipedia.

Grilled Halloumi & Watercress Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A vibrant and healthy salad featuring grilled halloumi cheese, peppery watercress, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Quick to prepare and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Salad

Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Grill Pan or Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz Halloumi Cheese Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 5 oz Watercress
• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved
• 1/2 Cucumber Diced
• 1/4 Red Onion Thinly sliced

Dressing

• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 4 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
• Remove halloumi from grill and set aside to cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, combine watercress, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
• In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
• Add grilled halloumi slices to the salad and toss again.
• Serve immediately.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette. Other greens like arugula or spinach can be substituted for watercress. You can also add toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Keyword easy, grilled, halloumi, healthy, quick, salad, summer, watercress