This simple yet exquisite appetizer features crispy, golden-brown slices of halloumi cheese, pan-seared to perfection, then drizzled with warm honey and sprinkled with fresh thyme. A balance of salty, creamy, sweet, and herbal notes makes this dish a standout starter for any Mediterranean-inspired menu. Serve it warm with lemon wedges and crusty bread for the ultimate comfort bite.
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Slice the halloumi into even slabs, about ½ inch thick.
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Pat them dry with a paper towel to reduce excess moisture and prevent splattering during cooking.
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Heat olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
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When the oil is hot, add the halloumi slices in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan).
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Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until deeply golden and crispy. Flip once using tongs or a spatula.
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Remove and place on a serving platter.
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Drizzle warm honey generously over the halloumi slices.
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Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top.
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Add lemon wedges to the plate for squeezing just before eating.
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Optionally, crack some black pepper for an extra punch.
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Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
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Pair with warm pita, sourdough, or flatbread.
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Excellent alongside a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko.
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Want a spicy twist? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey before drizzling.
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For extra complexity, try using thyme-infused honey or finishing with a few toasted walnuts.
Ingredients
Directions
-
Slice the halloumi into even slabs, about ½ inch thick.
-
Pat them dry with a paper towel to reduce excess moisture and prevent splattering during cooking.
-
Heat olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
-
When the oil is hot, add the halloumi slices in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan).
-
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until deeply golden and crispy. Flip once using tongs or a spatula.
-
Remove and place on a serving platter.
-
Drizzle warm honey generously over the halloumi slices.
-
Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top.
-
Add lemon wedges to the plate for squeezing just before eating.
-
Optionally, crack some black pepper for an extra punch.
-
Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
-
Pair with warm pita, sourdough, or flatbread.
-
Excellent alongside a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko.
-
Want a spicy twist? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey before drizzling.
-
For extra complexity, try using thyme-infused honey or finishing with a few toasted walnuts.