This grilled halloumi and berry salad is about to become your go-to summer favorite. Salty, crispy cheese meets juicy, sweet berries in a vibrant, refreshing dish that works as a light meal or colorful side. It’s the kind of vibrant, eye-catching dish that steals the show at picnics and feels effortlessly elegant for a weekend brunch. With its mix of textures and bold flavor contrast, grilled halloumi and berries are a match made for sunny days. You don’t need to be a salad expert to pull it off either. This grilled halloumi salad with berries is simple, quick, and wildly satisfying, your go-to summer recipe just got an upgrade.
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A Surprising Summer Hit from My Chaos-Filled Kitchen
How I Discovered Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries
Hi, I’m Sarah, and I never thought cheese and berries would change my summer cooking forever. But here we are. A few years ago, I grabbed some halloumi on a whim at the market. I’d never grilled cheese before (unless you count grilled cheese sandwiches), but I was craving something different. I had a few strawberries and blueberries that were starting to soften, and figured, why not?
I seared slices of halloumi in a hot skillet, then layered them over a bed of arugula with fresh berries, crunchy walnuts, and a simple splash of balsamic. My husband looked suspicious. My kids poked it. Then we all tasted it, and instantly agreed: grilled halloumi salad with berries was a keeper.
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Grilled Halloumi Salad With Berries – Bright, Fresh, And Easy
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This grilled halloumi salad with berries is a vibrant, protein-rich dish that’s perfect for summer. Salty, golden cheese paired with sweet berries, greens, and balsamic glaze makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch slabs
1 cup strawberries, halved
½ cup blueberries
4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
¼ cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or vinaigrette
Optional: pinch of black pepper, honey drizzle, or fresh mint
Instructions
1. Wash and dry your greens and berries. Slice strawberries.
2. Heat a grill pan over medium heat and brush with olive oil.
3. Grill the halloumi slices 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
4. Layer greens in a bowl or platter. Add grilled halloumi, berries, and nuts.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and add pepper or honey if desired.
6. Garnish with fresh mint and serve immediately.
Notes
Best served warm, but you can prep ingredients ahead.
Store each component separately and reheat halloumi in a skillet.
Swap in blackberries, raspberries, or grilled peaches for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Why Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries Works So Well
This salad has it all. Halloumi’s salty, squeaky bite holds up beautifully to grilling. It turns golden and crisp without melting away, unlike most cheeses. The sweet burst from the berries perfectly complements the savory richness of the halloumi. Toss in some peppery greens and a tangy vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad that checks every box: texture, flavor, color, nutrition, and satisfaction.
You can serve this salad warm or at room temp, which makes it perfect for summer gatherings or easy weeknight dinners. Pair it with a chilled avocado matcha smoothie or serve alongside this grilled calamari recipe for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. It’s fresh, fast, and honestly, a little addictive.
How to Make Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries Step by Step
Ingredients You’ll Need for Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries
To create the perfect grilled halloumi salad with berries, keep your ingredients simple and fresh. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch slabs
- 1 cup strawberries, halved
- ½ cup blueberries
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or spring mix)
- ¼ cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or vinaigrette
- Optional: pinch of black pepper, honey drizzle, or fresh mint
This combo gives you that satisfying bite from the cheese, juicy sweetness from the berries, and earthy crunch from the nuts. It’s the perfect balance. For more fruity salad inspiration, check out this watermelon and strawberry salad that’s just as colorful and refreshing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries
Step 1: Prep the ingredients
Wash and dry your greens. Cut the strawberries into slices and set them aside with the blueberries ready to go. Chop your walnuts or pecans and place them in a small bowl.
Step 2: Grill the halloumi
Set a nonstick or grill pan over medium-high heat and let it get hot. Brush or drizzle a little olive oil on the pan. Lay the halloumi slices onto the hot pan and sear them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully golden and slightly crisp. Remove and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the salad
On a large serving plate or bowl, layer the greens, grilled halloumi, berries, and nuts. Arrange the ingredients so that every bite offers a colorful mix of flavors.
Step 4: Add dressing and finish
Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a light vinaigrette. Add a pinch of black pepper or a drizzle of honey if you like contrast. Garnish with fresh mint for a cooling finish.
Step 5: Serve immediately
This grilled halloumi salad with berries is best enjoyed fresh while the cheese is still warm and crisp. Serve it as a main or side, it shines either way.
Looking for a drink to match? Pair this with a refreshing banana berry protein smoothie to keep the berry theme going strong.
Tasty Variations and Make-Ahead Tips for Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries
Simple Ways to Make Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries Your Own
One of the best things about grilled halloumi salad with berries is how easily it adapts to your tastes or the season. You can mix in raspberries, blackberries, or even grilled peaches for an extra layer of flavor. Craving something savory? Add sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for balance. Craving even more protein? Toss in grilled chicken strips or chickpeas.
For a refreshing twist, replace the vinaigrette with a sweet-tart honey-lime dressing or a bright, citrusy lemon-tahini sauce. Even the greens are flexible, kale, butter lettuce, or romaine all work beautifully.
Want a next-level experience? Toast the walnuts before adding them for richer flavor. Or for a slightly sweet bite, brush the halloumi with a touch of maple syrup before grilling. Pairing this vibrant dish with a light entrée like spinach quiche with cottage cheese creates a well-rounded, nourishing meal.
Halloumi isn’t just tasty, it’s also packed with protein and calcium, making it a smart choice for vegetarian meals. According to Healthline’s breakdown of halloumi cheese, it’s higher in fat and sodium than some cheeses, but it offers unique grilling properties and keeps you fuller longer.
Can You Make Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries Ahead of Time?
Yes, with a few smart steps. You can prep most of the components ahead:
- Wash and store your greens
- Slice your berries
- Toast your nuts
- Pre-make your dressing
Grill the halloumi last-minute for best texture. It’s quick to cook and tastes best warm. If you must grill it ahead, store it in an airtight container and reheat quickly in a pan just before serving. Keep each component stored separately to avoid sogginess.
This grilled halloumi salad with berries is perfect for entertaining because it comes together in just 15 minutes, but looks and tastes gourmet. Try it with a refreshing glass of fruit-infused water or alongside a vibrant Mexican street corn pasta salad for a satisfying summer menu.
Serving Ideas and Storage Tips for Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries
How to Serve Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries Like a Pro
Presentation matters, especially with a colorful dish like grilled halloumi salad with berries. Start by choosing a wide, shallow bowl or platter so every ingredient is visible. Fan out the grilled halloumi slices across the top for a rustic look, and scatter the berries for that juicy pop of color. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds instant elegance.
For casual lunches, portion the salad into individual bowls and serve with crusty bread or a chilled soup on the side. When I host summer brunches, I pair it with ricotta cheese and spinach ravioli for a filling, yet light meal that guests always remember.
If you’re prepping for a picnic or potluck, serve this grilled halloumi salad with berries in mason jars or layered in clear cups for grab-and-go portions. A sprig of mint on top makes it look extra fancy without much effort.
This salad also shines as a light dinner main, just add extra protein like lentils or quinoa. Or keep it simple and enjoy with an icy avocado matcha smoothie for a refreshing finish.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries
To keep your grilled halloumi salad with berries fresh, store each component separately. Halloumi tends to lose its crispness when chilled, so if you’ve grilled extra, keep it in a sealed container and quickly reheat it in a dry skillet before adding to your salad again.
The berries and greens can be stored in separate airtight containers for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing in a separate container and pour it over the salad only when you’re ready to enjoy it, ensuring everything stays fresh and vibrant. If you’ve already assembled the full salad, it’s best to consume it within 24 hours to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
For busy nights, consider prepping components in bulk and assembling fresh throughout the week. You’ll have a gourmet salad in minutes with minimal effort. For even more flavor-packed storage-friendly recipes, explore how ingredients like cottage cheese in banana bread can transform simple dishes into week-long winners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Halloumi Salad with Berries
Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have halloumi?
Halloumi is unique because it holds its shape when grilled, but if you don’t have it, try paneer or queso fresco. They won’t offer the same squeaky bite, but they’ll grill well and still make your grilled halloumi salad with berries delicious.
What berries work best in this salad?
Strawberries and blueberries are a classic combo for this grilled halloumi salad with berries. But you can also use raspberries, blackberries, or even pomegranate seeds. Just avoid overly juicy fruits like watermelon, which can water down the texture.
Can I grill the halloumi ahead of time?
You can, but it’s best fresh. If you need to prepare ahead, store grilled halloumi in a sealed container and reheat it quickly in a dry skillet before serving. It’ll regain that crispy edge halloumi is famous for.
Is grilled halloumi salad with berries good for meal prep?
Yes, with smart prep. Store each component separately and assemble fresh. The grilled halloumi can be made the night before, berries washed and sliced, and greens bagged. Leave the dressing off until serving time to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Grilled halloumi salad with berries isn’t just beautiful, it’s the kind of dish that proves flavor and nutrition can coexist. With salty, golden cheese, fresh summer berries, and crunchy nuts, it’s a satisfying mix that’s perfect for warm days, busy nights, and everything in between.
Whether you’re new to halloumi or looking for a new way to enjoy seasonal produce, this salad is the kind of recipe that impresses without effort. So fire up the grill, grab those berries, and make this grilled halloumi salad with berries your next mealtime win.
