Halloumi, Watermelon & Mint Salad

A quick and easy dish to make for those busy weeknights. Halloumi, the squeaky cheese, does not melt when heated. Instead it develops a delicious crust that surrounds a slightly springy, mild interior that squeaks between your teeth! Halloumi is the traditional white cheese of Cyprus. It is a semi hard cheese prepared from sheep’s milk and is delicious when grilled or fried. Watermelon is not only great on a hot summer day (good for a thirst quencher) it may also help quench the inflammation that contributes to conditions like asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and arthritis. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin A.

Serves 4
recipe from BBC Good Food

250g halloumi, sliced
1kg watermelon, sliced
200g green beans
small bunch of mint, finely shredded
juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra to drizzle

Heat grill to high. Lay the cheese on a baking tray in a single layer, then grill for 2 minutes on each side until golden. Toss the watermelon, beans and mint together with the lemon juice and olive oil. Season well and layer on plates with the slices of halloumi. Drizzle with a little more oil if you like. Serve with warm pita bread.

The Culinary Chase’s Note: I love this salad! It’s easy to prepare and is so fresh and light tasting. I first started eating halloumi about 6 years ago and haven’t looked back. I love the texture, flavor and the fact that you can grill it without it losing its shape is a bonus.