Go Back
Mediterranean grilled cheese salad recipe served with pomegranate seeds on top

Grilled Halloumi And Orzo Salad

Fatimah
This grilled halloumi and orzo salad is a heavenly combo of smoky cheese and the crunch of fresh veggies. Try it now!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Persian cucumbers chopped small
  • 2 large Roma tomatoes chopped small
  • ¾ cup walnuts chopped
  • ½ cup pomegranate seeds
  • ¼ cup parsley chopped
  • 2 mini radishes
  • ¼ red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup orzo pasta cooked according to package

To Grill Halloumi

  • 8 ounces halloumi cheese cut into ½ in. or 1in. cubes
  • 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ tablespoon pomegranate molasses
  • 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sumac
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Cut your halloumi into ½-1 inch cubes. Mix with the olive oil, Aleppo pepper, and honey.
  • Transfer to a preheated skillet and grill until golden on each side, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  • Boil or cook your orzo according to package instructions and set aside to cool.
  • To combine everything, add the chopped onion, tomato, cucumber, parsley, walnuts, and radishes to a bowl.
  • Add the pomegranate seeds, cooled and cooked halloumi, and the cooled and cooked orzo.
  • Mix the salad dressing ingredients together and pour on top.
  • Toss together well to combine and enjoy.

Notes

  • Cut your halloumi into uniform slices to ensure even grilling. Thinner slices crisp up beautifully and allow for a more consistent texture throughout your salad.
  • Elevate the flavors of the halloumi by marinating it for about 30 minutes before grilling. A blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs like oregano, basil, or rosemary infuses the cheese with a burst of tangy goodness.
  • Cook your orzo until it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. Rinse the orzo under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep the grains separate.
  • Toss your orzo salad with the dressing just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy. This way, you will ensure that each ingredient retains its distinct flavor and texture.
Keyword halloumi and orzo salad, halloumi cheese and orzo pasta salad, orzo halloumi salad, orzo salad with grilled halloumi
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!