Halloumi cheese with olives and thyme

8 servings

30 minutes

Halloumi cheese is a gem of Greek cuisine with a unique texture and rich flavor. It doesn't melt when fried but develops a crispy golden crust while remaining soft inside. In this recipe, halloumi is paired with aromatic thyme, spicy dried pepper, and juicy olives, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Olive oil enhances its tenderness while spices add depth. The dish is ideal as a light appetizer or as an accompaniment to the main meal. In Greece, halloumi is often served with bread, fresh vegetables, or as an addition to a glass of white wine. This recipe embodies Mediterranean simplicity where the quality of ingredients plays a key role.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 168.1
• Proteins: 7.4g
• Fats: 13.6g
• Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Ingredients

• Olive oil: 1 tbsp
• Halloumi cheese: 270 g
• Thyme leaves: to taste
• Dried red pepper: 0.5 tsp
• Pitted olives: 1 glass

Cooking steps

1. Heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, preferably cast iron or non-stick.

2. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl the pan to evenly distribute the oil.

   Required ingredients:

   • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

3. Add the cheese 'Halloumi' and let it fry without flipping in the pan until it turns dark golden (about 2 minutes).

   Required ingredients:

   • Halloumi cheese: 270 g

4. Use a flexible spatula to flip the cheese to the other side.

5. Continue frying the cheese, flipping it to the other side for about 5 minutes (it's not necessary to fry all sides).

6. Remove the pan from the heat, add thyme and ground pepper. Arrange the Halloumi cheese and olives on small plates and drizzle with oil.

   Required ingredients:

   • Thyme leaves:  to taste
   • Dried red pepper: 0.5 teaspoon
   • Pitted olives: 1 glass