Grilled vegetables combined with the rich, salty flavor of Halloumi cheese and complemented by a tangy mint yogurt dip, this Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt recipe brings together the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just enjoying a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
In this article, we will take you through everything you need to know to create these delightful skewers, from the origins of the dish to step-by-step preparation. By the end, you’ll have a perfect grilled recipe that rivals any at-home cooking challenge.
What Are Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt?
Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt is a grilled dish made by skewering chunks of Halloumi cheese alongside fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes. These skewers are then grilled until slightly charred and golden, delivering a smoky flavor with the perfect level of tenderness.
The dish is complemented by a refreshing mint yogurt sauce made with Greek yogurt, fresh mint, lemon juice, and garlic, creating a cooling contrast to the warmth and smokiness of the grilled ingredients. This combination of savory and fresh flavors makes it a well-rounded meal or appetizer.
Origin of Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt
The concept of grilling cheese and vegetables on skewers has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in regions like Greece, Turkey, and Cyprus, where Halloumi cheese is widely enjoyed. Halloumi itself is a traditional Cypriot cheese made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk, known for its high melting point. This quality makes it perfect for grilling, as it softens but doesn’t melt completely, allowing it to maintain its shape while absorbing smoky flavors.
The addition of mint yogurt as a sauce is also a Mediterranean touch, commonly used in dishes such as kebabs and grilled meats to add a refreshing, creamy element to balance the heat and spices of grilled food.
Ingredients for Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt
For the Skewers:
- 1 block (8 oz) Halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
For the Mint Yogurt:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Prepare the Skewers
First, you’ll need to preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures the skewers cook evenly and get that beautiful char.
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined. Add the Halloumi cubes, bell peppers, zucchini slices, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss everything gently, ensuring each ingredient is coated evenly in the marinade.
Now, take your skewers and start threading them with the marinated Halloumi and vegetables, alternating the pieces for variety and color. This will create a beautiful visual effect when they are grilled.
2. Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers onto the preheated grill or grill pan. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally. The vegetables should become tender with slight char marks, and the Halloumi cheese will develop a beautiful golden and crispy crust on the edges.
The smoky aroma and visual appeal of the skewers will heighten your anticipation, and soon, you’ll have the perfect grilled Halloumi & vegetable combination.
3. Make the Mint Yogurt
While the skewers are grilling, it’s time to prepare the mint yogurt dip. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped mint, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic (if using). Stir well to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
Season the yogurt sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. For extra freshness, you can refrigerate the mint yogurt for a few minutes before serving.
4. Serve
Once your skewers are beautifully grilled, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve the skewers alongside the mint yogurt, either as a dipping sauce or drizzled over the skewers. Garnish with extra fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor.
This vibrant dish can be enjoyed as a light dinner or appetizer, perfect for summer grilling season or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Variations of Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt
This recipe is highly versatile, and you can add or substitute various ingredients to suit your tastes. Here are some variations you can try:
- Additional Vegetables: Add mushrooms, eggplant, or asparagus to the skewers for extra variety.
- Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes over the skewers before grilling or drizzle with spicy harissa sauce.
- Herb Swap: Instead of mint, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano in the yogurt sauce to create a new twist on the flavors.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add chicken, tofu, or shrimp to the skewers for additional protein.
FAQs about Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt
1. Can I use other cheeses instead of Halloumi?
Yes, if you can’t find Halloumi cheese, you can substitute it with paneer or grilled feta. However, Halloumi has a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart, so it’s the best choice for this dish.
2. How do I prevent Halloumi from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the Halloumi from sticking, make sure to oil the skewers and the grill grates. You can also brush the cheese with a little extra olive oil before grilling.
3. Can I make the mint yogurt ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mint yogurt sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This gives the flavors more time to meld together.
4. How do I know when the vegetables are cooked?
The vegetables should be tender with slight charring on the edges. If you use a zucchini or bell pepper, these should soften but not turn mushy.
5. Can I cook these skewers in the oven instead of grilling them?
Yes, you can cook the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
The Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt recipe is the epitome of fresh, vibrant, and healthy Mediterranean-inspired grilling. From the smoky, charred vegetables and Halloumi to the creamy, zesty mint yogurt sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
The versatility of the recipe allows you to customize the ingredients, so feel free to get creative with vegetables, seasonings, and even add proteins if desired. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or enjoying a light dinner, these skewers are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t forget to pair these skewers with your favorite side dishes or simply enjoy them on their own for a truly refreshing and satisfying meal.
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Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt: A Vibrant and Flavorful Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt is a grilled dish made by skewering chunks of Halloumi cheese alongside fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes. These skewers are then grilled until slightly charred and golden, delivering a smoky flavor with the perfect level of tenderness.
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
- 1 block (8 oz) halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
For the Mint Yogurt:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
. Prepare the Skewers:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the halloumi cubes, bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the marinade.
- Thread the halloumi and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating pieces for variety and color.
2. Grill the Skewers:
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill or grill pan.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, and the halloumi is golden and crispy on the edges.
3. Make the Mint Yogurt:
- In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped mint, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir well and adjust seasoning to taste. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
4. Serve:
- Transfer the grilled skewers to a serving platter.
- Serve with the mint yogurt on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Garnish with extra fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the halloumi and vegetables for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Serve with warm pita bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and refreshing meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers with Mint Yogurt