Name: Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Skewers with Mint
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean cuisine
Ingredients: 2 pcs zucchini (medium, cut into 1-inch thick half-moons or rounds); 250 g halloumi cheese (block, cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 pcs lemon (juiced); 0.25 cup fresh mint (chopped); 2 pcs garlic (cloves, minced); 3 tbsp olive oil; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 8 pcs wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes if using)

Close-up image of beautifully grilled zucchini and halloumi skewers arranged on a rustic wooden platter. The zucchini pieces are tender with visible char marks, and the halloumi cheese cubes are golden brown and slightly crisp. Fresh mint leaves are sprinkled over the top, adding a vibrant green color. The dish is presented warm, suggesting a delightful summer vegetable side, ready to be enjoyed a

Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with these vibrant Grilled Zucchini and Halloumi Skewers with Mint. This delightful vegetable side dish is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients brought to life by the magic of grilling. Originating from Cyprus, Halloumi cheese offers a unique semi-hard, unripened, brined texture that holds its shape beautifully under heat, developing a tantalizing golden crust and a satisfyingly squeaky bite. When paired with tender zucchini that softens and caramelizes on the grill, each skewer becomes a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. A bright marinade of zesty lemon, fruity olive oil, pungent garlic, and refreshing mint permeates the ingredients, creating an aromatic Mediterranean cuisine experience. These skewers are not only incredibly quick to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings, but they also offer a sophisticated yet approachable side that can elevate any meal. Whether serving alongside grilled lamb, baked fish, or as part of a larger mezze platter, this dish is a testament to how humble vegetables and a unique cheese can be transformed into something truly extraordinary. Get ready to impress with this easy-to-make, utterly delicious grilled vegetable side.

Preparation time: 15 min
Cooking time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Servings: 4

Instructions

Preparation

1In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh mint, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2Add the cut zucchini and halloumi cubes to the marinade, tossing gently to ensure everything is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Assembling and Grilling

1Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked.
2Carefully thread alternating pieces of marinated zucchini and halloumi onto the skewers.
3Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the zucchini is tender-crisp and the halloumi has developed beautiful golden-brown char marks and is slightly softened.
4Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two before serving.

Serving

1Serve the grilled zucchini and halloumi skewers immediately as a delicious warm vegetable side dish. Garnish with a few extra fresh mint leaves if desired.

Instructions

Preparation

1In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh mint, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2Add the cut zucchini and halloumi cubes to the marinade, tossing gently to ensure everything is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Assembling and Grilling

1Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked.
2Carefully thread alternating pieces of marinated zucchini and halloumi onto the skewers.
3Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the zucchini is tender-crisp and the halloumi has developed beautiful golden-brown char marks and is slightly softened.
4Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two before serving.

Serving

1Serve the grilled zucchini and halloumi skewers immediately as a delicious warm vegetable side dish. Garnish with a few extra fresh mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbs: 10 g

Nutrient	Per serving
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	12 g
Fat	18 g
Carbs	10 g

Tips

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Don't overcrowd the grill. Cook skewers in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and good charring.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the flavors and brightness of the dish.