Halloumi and Grilled Peach Salad with Arugula and Mint
Halloumi & Grilled Peach Salad with Arugula & Mint is a delightful summer dish that brings together the creamy texture of grilled halloumi cheese and the sweet tang of grilled peaches, all tossed with peppery arugula, refreshing mint, and a light, zesty dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as an elegant side dish for dinner. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also a healthy option, rich in flavor and nutrients.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Halloumi & Grilled Peach Salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. The combination of the salty halloumi, sweet and slightly caramelized peaches, peppery arugula, and a hint of mint creates a refreshing and vibrant dish. The dressing adds a citrusy brightness that ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—taking only 20 minutes from start to finish—making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
Pro Tips for Making the Halloumi & Grilled Peach Salad
1. Choosing Peaches: Select ripe peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the best flavor. Avoid overly soft or bruised fruit.
2. Grilling Technique: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high to achieve those beautiful grill marks. Ensure the halloumi is well-pressed, so it caramelizes nicely without falling apart.
3. Customizing Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the amount of mint or add other herbs like basil for a different flavor. You may also substitute the pistachios with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
4. Dressing Variation: This dressing can be your base for other salads; just switch up the vinegar or add fresh herbs and spices to create different taste profiles.
5. Serving Tip: Serve the salad immediately after assembling to enjoy the warm halloumi and fresh peaches.
Ingredients
Here is what you will need for making this delectable salad:
- For the Salad:
- 4 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced into wedges
- 4 cups fresh arugula
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional, for crunch)
- For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Begin by preparing your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. This is crucial for attaining those coveted grill marks and a delightful smoky flavor.
Step 2: While the grill is heating up, lightly brush the peach wedges and halloumi pieces with a bit of olive oil. This will help them grill evenly and prevent sticking.
Step 3: Place the peach wedges on the grill and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the peaches start to caramelize. Aim for a soft texture but not too mushy.
Step 4: After the peaches, add the halloumi slices to the grill. Grilling the halloumi typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and perfectly melted.
Step 5: While the peaches and halloumi are grilling, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the dressing. Adjust the seasoning as desired.
Step 6: In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, mint leaves, sliced red onion, and optional pistachios. Toss lightly with the dressing to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 7: Once the peaches and halloumi are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill. Arrange the warm peaches and sliced halloumi over the dressed salad and serve immediately for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to grill the peaches and halloumi just before serving to maintain their warmth and texture. However, you can prepare the salad components in advance and assemble them right before serving.
What can I substitute halloumi with?
If you can’t find halloumi, you can substitute it with other grilled cheeses like paneer or even a firm goat cheese.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
While the individual components can be prepared ahead, it’s recommended not to mix the salad until just before eating to prevent the arugula from wilting.
What are some variations of this salad?
You can add other fruits such as plums or nectarines, and different nuts like almonds or walnuts. You might also try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, you can replace the halloumi with a plant-based cheese or omit it altogether. You can add more nuts for protein and crunch instead.
Conclusion
This Halloumi & Grilled Peach Salad with Arugula & Mint is not only a feast for the eyes but also an explosion of flavors. With its easy preparation and fresh ingredients, it captures the essence of summer dining. Whether paired with a main dish or enjoyed on its own, this salad is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Try it today and savor every bite!
