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Grilled Halloumi Lemon Thyme Skewers

Category: Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

Grilled halloumi skewers burst with savory flavor from salty cheese, zesty lemon, and aromatic thyme. Skewered alongside cherry tomatoes and red onions, each piece develops a golden, smoky char on the grill while absorbing a bright olive oil and garlic marinade. The cheese’s firm texture stands up to grilling, creating a satisfying chew in every bite. Serve these skewers hot off the grill, garnished with fresh thyme and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with tzatziki or a crisp salad for a true Mediterranean experience—perfect as an appetizer, side, or light main dish for gatherings large or small.

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Created By Sarah
Last updated on Thu, 22 May 2025 13:10:09 GMT
Skewers of meat with herbs on them. Save
Skewers of meat with herbs on them. | sarahmeal.com

Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon and Thyme capture everything I love about Mediterranean cooking: bright flavors juicy bites and quick prep that makes any meal feel special. These skewers bring together the salty tang of halloumi cheese with sunny notes of lemon and fragrant thyme all rounded out by the char of the grill. Whether you are planning a lively barbecue or just want an easy appetizer they always add a festive touch to the table.

When I made this recipe for the first time at a family cookout everyone kept reaching for seconds and even the kids were excited to eat cheese on a stick

Ingredients

  • Halloumi cheese: choose a block that is firm without cracks and has a little moisture for best grilling results this cheese is your star for texture and saltiness
  • Lemon: fresh and vibrant to lift the flavor sliced thin so each piece caramelizes a little on the grill pick unwaxed for eating skin
  • Red onion: adds a gentle sweetness and a pop of color go for firm onions with tightly layered skin
  • Cherry tomatoes: bring juiciness that pops in your mouth look for shiny plump fruits
  • Olive oil: rich and smooth helps the other flavors stick choose extra virgin for freshness
  • Lemon juice: brightens the dish freshly squeezed tastes best
  • Fresh thyme: provides herby aroma opt for sprigs with small tender leaves
  • Garlic: adds depth and a punch of savoriness use fresh cloves for a cleaner taste
  • Honey: a touch of sweetness balances the savory tang choose local honey if possible
  • Salt and pepper: adjust to taste I always grind fresh for maximum aroma
  • Fresh thyme sprigs: for a final flourish on the platter plus red pepper flakes if you like a little heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Assemble the Skewers:
Carefully thread cubes of halloumi with lemon slices red onion and cherry tomatoes alternating each for a balanced look and bite. Generously brush over any extra marinade to coat every surface. This ensures each piece gets full flavor and will caramelize beautifully.
Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan nice and hot over medium high heat. Brush or dab a thin layer of oil on the grates to keep the cheese from sticking. Heating the grill fully means you will get perfect char marks without waiting too long.
Grill the Skewers:
Lay the skewers across the grill and let them cook for about three minutes on each side. You want the halloumi to go golden and just starting to blister not dry out. Turn the skewers gently with tongs so nothing falls off or sticks.
Serve and Garnish:
Slide the finished skewers onto a serving platter. Top with a few sprigs of fresh thyme a little drizzle of olive oil and a shake of red pepper flakes if you want to wake up the flavors. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing right at the table.
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A wooden cutting board with grilled food on it. | sarahmeal.com

I always look forward to the first bite of lemon as it caramelizes against the cheese there is something magical about that combination my dad once ate an entire tray by himself during a backyard party because no one could resist that sizzling aroma

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers store the skewers in a covered container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat just pop them on a hot grill or skillet for a couple of minutes on each side. This keeps the halloumi warm and slightly crispy though they will not be as crunchy as when freshly cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find halloumi you can use a very firm feta or paneer but expect different textures. Swap thyme with oregano or rosemary for a twist in the herb profile. Firm tofu is a good plant based option for a dairy free version though the flavor will be milder.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a bowl of tangy tzatziki for dipping or next to a bright Greek salad full of crisp cucumbers olives and tomatoes. These skewers love being part of a big mezze spread alongside hummus grilled bread and roasted veggies.

A wooden board with grilled food on it. Save
A wooden board with grilled food on it. | sarahmeal.com

Cultural Context

Halloumi has been a staple cheese in Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean for centuries prized because it keeps its shape over fire. Grilling halloumi turns simple ingredients into a celebration and is a classic dish for sharing with friends and family at gatherings and festive meals.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can these skewers be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can assemble and marinate the skewers up to a day ahead. Grill them just before serving for best flavor and texture.

→ What is the best method to prevent sticking on the grill?

Pat the halloumi dry and lightly oil the grill grates or pan before cooking to prevent sticking.

→ Is it possible to bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway, until the cheese is golden.

→ Can other ingredients be added to the skewers?

Absolutely! Try adding zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor variation.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?

Tzatziki, hummus, or a tangy yogurt sauce are all excellent accompaniments for these skewers.

→ Is a grill pan a good substitute for an outdoor grill?

Yes, a grill pan works well and gives the cheese a similarly appealing golden char.

Grilled Halloumi Lemon Thyme Skewers

Salty halloumi with lemon and thyme, grilled until golden. A simple, Mediterranean-inspired dish ideal for sharing.

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes
Total Duration
28 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Side Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Simple

Cuisine Style: Mediterranean

Servings Yield: 4 Portion Size (8 skewers)

Diet Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly, Gluten-Free Option

What You'll Need

→ For the Skewers

Ingredient 01 250–280 g halloumi cheese, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
Ingredient 02 1 lemon, sliced into thin wedges
Ingredient 03 1 medium red onion, cut into large chunks
Ingredient 04 200 g cherry tomatoes

→ For the Marinade

Ingredient 05 45 ml extra virgin olive oil
Ingredient 06 30 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
Ingredient 07 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Ingredient 08 2 garlic cloves, minced
Ingredient 09 1 teaspoon honey
Ingredient 10 Fine sea salt, to taste
Ingredient 11 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Optional Garnishes

Ingredient 12 Fresh thyme sprigs
Ingredient 13 Crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make It

Instruction 01

Cut halloumi into even-sized cubes. Slice lemon into thin wedges and cut red onion into hearty chunks. Rinse cherry tomatoes. Pat halloumi dry to remove excess moisture.

Instruction 02

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, minced garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Instruction 03

Gently toss halloumi cubes in the marinade, ensuring all sides are coated. Allow to marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature.

Instruction 04

Thread halloumi, lemon wedges, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, alternating ingredients for balance and visual appeal. Brush skewers with remaining marinade.

Instruction 05

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Instruction 06

Arrange skewers on the grill. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning to achieve an even golden char. Grill until halloumi is crisp and vegetables are tender.

Instruction 07

Transfer cooked skewers to a platter. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Additional Tips

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for 15–20 minutes before assembling to prevent burning while grilling.
  2. Allowing halloumi to marinate enhances its flavor and prevents it from drying out on the grill.
  3. A grill pan offers excellent results if you do not have access to an outdoor grill.

Essential Tools

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Medium bowl
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Mixing spoon or whisk
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)
  • Tongs

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk (halloumi cheese).

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

These nutritional details are for informational purposes and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 238
  • Fat Content: 17.2 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 7.5 grams
  • Protein Content: 13.4 grams