Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Gooey & Crispy Texture: The inside of the halloumi remains soft, while the outside becomes crispy and golden, creating a perfect texture contrast.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish for any meal.
- Healthier Option: This recipe uses minimal oil compared to traditional frying, making it a lighter choice while still being flavorful.
- Diet-Friendly: Halloumi is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly, perfect for those following specific dietary preferences.
- Versatile: You can serve this air-fried halloumi in multiple ways—on its own, in wraps, on salads, or as part of a mezze platter.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) block halloumi cheese
- Olive oil spray or 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Honey (for drizzle)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Halloumi
- Cut the halloumi block into ½-inch thick slices.
- If using olive oil, lightly brush both sides of each halloumi slice with the oil. If using olive oil spray, lightly spray both sides.
Step 3: Air Fry the Halloumi
- Arrange the halloumi slices evenly in the preheated air fryer basket without overlapping.
- Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through using tongs for even cooking. The slices should be golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, add 1-2 additional minutes of cooking time.
Step 4: Drizzle and Serve
- Serve immediately, either on its own or with a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory contrast.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve the crispy halloumi slices with a drizzle of honey and fresh grapes for a delightful sweet and salty snack.
- Salad Topper: Add the crispy halloumi to salads for extra protein and flavor. It pairs well with leafy greens, roasted vegetables, and grains like quinoa or farro.
- Mezze Platter: Include the halloumi in a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter with hummus, tzatziki, olives, and pita bread.
- Wraps & Sandwiches: Use the air-fried halloumi as a filling for wraps and sandwiches, pairing it with fresh veggies and sauces for a satisfying meal.
- Breakfast: Serve with eggs or avocado toast for a protein-packed start to your day.
Why Halloumi?
Halloumi cheese, often referred to as “grilling cheese,” is traditionally made from sheep’s and goat’s milk. It has a high melting point, which allows it to develop a crispy, golden crust while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. Its salty and slightly tangy flavor makes it a perfect match for both savory and sweet dishes, like this one with honey drizzle.
Expert Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Halloumi
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness from the start.
- Pat Dry: Before air frying, pat the halloumi slices dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture for the crispiest results.
- Flip Halfway: Flipping the halloumi halfway through cooking ensures even crisping on both sides.
- Serve Immediately: Air-fried halloumi is best enjoyed hot and crispy straight from the air fryer. If it cools, it can become chewy.
Nutritional Information
Halloumi is a great source of protein and calcium. Each serving of air-fried halloumi provides about 5g of protein and 227mg of calcium, making it a good addition to your diet. However, since it’s relatively high in sodium, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Conclusion
This Crispy Air-Fried Halloumi with Honey Drizzle is a simple yet delicious dish that elevates your appetizer game. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s a versatile treat that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. The sweet and salty combo of the crispy halloumi and honey drizzle will have you coming back for more. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors!
Crispy Air-Fried Halloumi with Honey Drizzle
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Crispy Air-Fried Halloumi with Honey Drizzle combines the rich, salty flavor of halloumi with a crispy exterior and a creamy interior. Topped with honey, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is a quick, healthy, and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
1 (8 oz) block halloumi cheese
Olive oil spray or 1 teaspoon olive oil
Honey (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Cut the halloumi block into ½-inch thick slices. If using olive oil, lightly brush both sides of each slice with oil, or spray both sides with olive oil spray.
- Arrange the halloumi slices evenly in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispiness, add 1-2 additional minutes of cooking time.
- Serve immediately, drizzling with honey for a sweet and savory contrast.
Notes
For extra flavor, serve with fresh grapes for a sweet and salty pairing.
For a more savory option, pair with tzatziki or hummus.
Halloumi can be enjoyed as a topping on salads, in wraps, or as a part of a mezze platter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice of halloumi
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
