Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Pineapple and Mint

Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Pineapple and Mint: A Sizzling Mediterranean Delight 🧀🍍🔥

1. Introduction

Discover the perfect harmony of flavors with these irresistible Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Pineapple and Mint! This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the salty richness of halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of pineapple and the refreshing zing of fresh mint. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a quick vegetarian appetizer, these skewers deliver a delightful contrast of textures and tastes that will impress any crowd.

What makes this recipe truly special is how the ingredients complement each other. The halloumi cheese, known for its high melting point, develops a beautiful golden crust when grilled while maintaining its signature squeaky texture. The pineapple caramelizes slightly on the grill, intensifying its natural sugars, while the mint adds a cooling contrast that balances the dish perfectly. This combination isn’t just delicious – it’s a feast for the senses with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and satisfying textures.

2. Ingredients

Gathering quality ingredients is key to making these grilled halloumi skewers shine. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet impressive dish:

• 250g halloumi cheese – Look for authentic Cypriot halloumi if possible, cut into 2cm cubes
• 2 cups fresh pineapple – Choose a ripe, sweet pineapple cut into chunks (canned works in a pinch but fresh is superior)
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves – Preferably just picked for maximum aroma and flavor
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Extra virgin for the best taste
• 1 tbsp honey (optional) – For an extra touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth to complement the grilling
• Wooden or metal skewers – If using wooden, remember to soak them first
• Lemon wedges for serving – The acidity brightens all the flavors

For those looking to explore more grilled halloumi recipes, this variation with lime glaze offers another delicious take on the combination.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by cutting your halloumi cheese into uniform 2cm cubes – this ensures even cooking. A pro tip: pat the cheese dry with paper towels to help it brown better on the grill. Prepare fresh pineapple chunks of similar size to the cheese; about 1.5-2 inches works well. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling – this step is crucial for perfect presentation.

While prepping, consider preparing a simple marinade by mixing the olive oil with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and the smoked paprika. Lightly tossing the halloumi cubes in this mixture will enhance their flavor. The pineapple doesn’t need seasoning as its natural sugars will caramelize beautifully on the grill.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the halloumi cubes and pineapple chunks alternately onto the skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even heat distribution. This spacing allows each ingredient to cook properly and develop those attractive grill marks. A good pattern is: halloumi, pineapple, mint leaf, repeat. The mint leaves should be gently tucked between some of the ingredients rather than skewered through to prevent wilting.

Drizzle lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush for even coverage, then sprinkle with smoked paprika. If you’re using honey, wait until the grilling process to apply it. The assembly process is where you can get creative – consider adding other colorful ingredients like cherry tomatoes or red onion slices for visual appeal.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). The right temperature is crucial – too hot and the halloumi will burn before the pineapple caramelizes; too low and you won’t get those beautiful grill marks. Cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, just until the halloumi develops golden grill marks and the pineapple caramelizes slightly.

Resist the temptation to move them too much – let them develop a nice sear before turning. For extra sweetness, brush with honey during the last minute of grilling. Watch carefully as halloumi can go from perfectly golden to overdone quickly. The cheese should be slightly softened but still hold its shape when you remove it from the grill.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the grilled halloumi skewers to a serving platter immediately after cooking. The residual heat will continue to soften the cheese slightly, creating the perfect texture. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and aroma. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top – the acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.

Presentation matters with this dish. Consider serving on a wooden board or rustic platter to enhance the Mediterranean vibe. The combination of warm, slightly melted cheese with sweet pineapple and aromatic mint creates an unforgettable flavor experience that’s both sophisticated and approachable. These skewers are best enjoyed immediately while the halloumi is still warm and slightly gooey inside.

4. Cooking Tips

To ensure your grilled halloumi skewers turn out perfectly every time, keep these professional tips in mind:

• Cheese selection: Use fresh, high-quality halloumi for best results. Lower quality versions may release too much oil or not hold their shape.
• Pineapple prep: Use fresh, ripe pineapple for the best natural sweetness. If using canned, drain thoroughly and pat dry.
• Grilling technique: Don’t overcrowd the grill – leave space between skewers for even cooking and beautiful char marks.
• Timing is everything: Don’t overcook halloumi – it should be golden with a slight squeak when bitten. Overcooked halloumi becomes rubbery.
• Creative variations: Experiment with adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onion for color variation and added flavor dimensions.
• Flavor boost: For extra flavor, marinate the halloumi in olive oil, lemon zest, and oregano for 30 minutes before grilling.

5. Serving Suggestions

These versatile grilled halloumi skewers can be served in multiple ways depending on the occasion:

As an appetizer: Serve 2-3 skewers per person with dipping sauces like:

• A drizzle of aged balsamic glaze for sweet-tart contrast
• Freshly made tzatziki sauce for cool creaminess
• Chili-infused honey for sweet heat

As a light meal: Pair with:

• Crusty bread or warm pita wedges to soak up the delicious juices
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant
• Quinoa or couscous salad for a heartier option

Beverage pairings:

• Chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
• Dry rosé for summer entertaining
• Sparkling water with lime for a non-alcoholic option
• Mint-infused lemonade to complement the flavors

6. Nutritional Information

Per serving (2 skewers):

• Calories: 280 – A satisfying yet light option
• Protein: 14g – Halloumi is an excellent vegetarian protein source
• Carbohydrates: 18g – Primarily from the nutritious pineapple
• Fat: 18g – Mostly from the halloumi’s healthy fats
• Calcium: 450mg (45% DV) – Halloumi is calcium-rich
• Vitamin C: 35mg (58% DV) – Thanks to the pineapple
• Fiber: 2g – From the pineapple and mint

This dish offers a good balance of macronutrients while being naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. The combination provides sustained energy without being too heavy, making it perfect for warm weather dining.

7. Variations

While the classic combination is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with these creative variations:

Flavor Twists:

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or harissa to the oil before brushing
• Herbaceous Twist: Replace mint with basil, cilantro, or even tarragon for different flavor profiles
• Citrus Boost: Add lime or orange zest to the marinade for brightness

Ingredient Swaps:

• Fruit Alternatives: Try with mango, peach, or even watermelon instead of pineapple
• Cheese Options: Queso panela or paneer can substitute for halloumi if unavailable
• Vegetable Additions: Include cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell pepper chunks

Protein Variations:

• Vegetarian Protein Boost: Add marinated tofu or tempeh cubes
• Pescatarian Option: Include grilled shrimp or scallops between the halloumi cubes
• Meat Lovers: Add chunks of grilled chicken or lamb

8. Storage and Reheating

While these grilled halloumi skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, here’s how to handle leftovers:

Storage:

• Allow skewers to cool completely before storing
• Remove from skewers and store components separately if possible
• Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
• The pineapple may release some juice – you can pat components dry before reheating

Reheating:

• For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat
• Oven method: Place on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the halloumi rubbery
• The mint is best added fresh when serving reheated leftovers

Note that the texture won’t be quite as perfect as when freshly made, but the flavors will still be delicious. Consider repurposing leftovers into a salad or grain bowl if the texture changes too much.

9. Conclusion

These Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Pineapple and Mint represent the perfect marriage of Mediterranean flavors and tropical sweetness. The halloumi’s satisfying saltiness creates a beautiful contrast with the juicy pineapple, while fresh mint adds a cooling, aromatic element that ties everything together. What makes this dish truly special is its versatility – equally at home as an elegant appetizer at a dinner party or as a casual BBQ staple.

The recipe’s simplicity belies its impressive results. With just a few quality ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. The visual appeal of the golden-brown halloumi against the bright pineapple and green mint makes it as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be adapted for various dietary preferences.

Whether you’re new to cooking with halloumi or a longtime fan, these skewers offer a delightful way to enjoy this unique cheese. The combination of textures – from the halloumi’s satisfying chew to the pineapple’s juicy burst – creates a memorable eating experience that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Perfect for summer entertaining but delicious year-round, these grilled halloumi skewers are destined to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

For more Mediterranean-inspired recipes and cooking tips, explore our collection at MealsMom.com, where we share our passion for simple, flavorful dishes that bring people together.