Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
When summer rolls around, the heat can make cooking feel like a chore. However, there are incredible ways to enjoy seasonal produce without getting bogged down in the kitchen. One of the easiest and most delicious options is making grilled veggie and halloumi skewers. These skewers combine vibrant vegetables and the rich, salty goodness of halloumi cheese, and they can be prepared in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or sunny weekend grilling sessions, these skewers are sure to impress.
What Is Summer Dinner Ideas: Grilled Veggie & Halloumi Skewers in 20 Minutes?
Summer dinner ideas often lean towards lighter, fresher meals, and grilled veggie and halloumi skewers encapsulate this perfectly. Utilizing an array of colorful vegetables paired with halloumi cheese, these skewers provide a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a quick meal at home, this dish hits all the right notes. Halloumi, known for its high melting point, gets beautifully charred on the grill while remaining pleasantly chewy, making it the star of the dish.
Why You’ll Love This
There are numerous reasons to love grilled veggie and halloumi skewers. First and foremost, it’s an incredibly **quick and easy recipe**. You can whip it up in about 20 minutes from prep to plate. Moreover, it’s flexible! You can mix and match vegetables according to what you have on hand or what’s in season. Generally, grilled vegetables become sweeter and more flavorful, intensifying their taste during cooking. The **combination of textures** from the crispy veggies and the slightly chewy halloumi creates a delightful eating experience.
Additionally, this dish is perfect for those following a **vegetarian diet** or looking for healthier options. It is packed with vitamins, and you can accompany them with a light salad or whole grain for a complete meal. Plus, grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that takes these skewers to the next level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Halloumi Cheese (400g): This chewy, salty cheese is perfect for grilling. It’s rich in flavor and holds its shape well.
- Zucchini (2 medium): Adds a tender yet firm bite; slice them into rounds for even cooking.
- Bell Peppers (2, mixed colors): Sweet and crunchy, these veggies add vibrant color to your skewers.
- Cherry Tomatoes (200g): Bursting with flavor, they add a juicy element when grilled.
- Red Onion (1 medium): Adds a sharp flavor that mellows when grilled.
- Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): For drizzling, it provides moisture and enhances the grilling process.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors of your ingredients.
- Fresh Herbs (such as thyme or oregano): Optional, but they add a fresh burst of flavor.
How to Make
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cutting the halloumi into 1-inch cubes. Next, slice the zucchini into rounds, chop the bell peppers into chunks, and quarter the red onion to create manageable pieces. Lastly, rinse the cherry tomatoes and set all the vegetables and cheese aside.
- Soak Skewers (if using wooden ones): If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 15-30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers can be used directly.
- Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine sliced veggies and halloumi. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs if using. Toss everything gently to ensure even coverage without breaking the cheese.
- Skewering: Carefully thread the halloumi and vegetables onto your skewers, alternating between cheese and veggies. This not only prevents the cheese from falling apart but also creates a colorful display.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once ready, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and a slight char, which indicates the halloumi is done. Keep an eye on them, as grilling times may vary.
- Serve: Once evenly grilled, remove from the grill and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with a little more olive oil, and enjoy them with a side salad or your favorite dips!
Variations & Substitutions
Different Cheese Options: While halloumi is ideal, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like **Feta** or **Paneer**. Feta provides a tangy burst of flavor while paneer can give you a milder taste. Adjust the cooking time based on how quickly the alternative cheese melts or chars.
Vegetable Mix: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your choice of vegetables. You could use **asparagus** for a more upscale feel or **mushrooms** for a rich earthy flavor. Even **pineapple** can work, adding a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of halloumi.
Herb-infused Olive Oil: Elevate the skewers by infusing your olive oil with fresh herbs like basil or rosemary. Just heat the oil with herbs for a few minutes to release their flavors before tossing them with the vegetables.
Medley of Seasonal Veggies: Customize your skewers according to the season. During fall, consider using **butternut squash** or **brussels sprouts**, whereas spring could offer **asparagus** and **snap peas**.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing grilled veggie and halloumi skewers, it’s essential to avoid a few common pitfalls.
Overcrowding the Skewers: Putting too many pieces can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s space between each item to allow for proper heat circulation, which enables everything to grill evenly.
Not Soaking Wooden Skewers: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can lead to burning during grilling. Always soak for adequate time to help prevent charring and ensure even cooking.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Halloumi is a unique cheese, and using a low-quality version can yield disappointingly rubbery textures. Always opt for good quality halloumi to achieve that perfect grill mark and texture.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Grilled veggie and halloumi skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to **3 days**. To store, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
For freezing, it’s best to freeze the ingredients raw rather than after grilling. Once assembled, place them in a zip-top bag and freeze for up to **3 months**. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then grill as usual.
To reheat, place the skewers on a grill or in a preheated oven at **350°F (175°C)** for about **5–8 minutes** until warmed through. Be cautious not to overcook them during reheating, as the halloumi can become rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese for skewers?
Absolutely! While halloumi is traditional due to its high melting point, cheeses like **Feta** and **Paneer** work well too. Each type of cheese will offer a different texture and flavor, making your skewers unique.
What vegetables can I add?
You can add any vegetables that grill well. Try options like **asparagus**, **mushrooms**, or even seasonal veggies like **eggplant** and **zucchini**. The key is to choose vegetables that will hold up to grilling and provide a delightful flavor combination with the halloumi.
How can I make these skewers ahead of time?
You can prepare the kebabs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to **24 hours** before grilling. Season them and assemble on skewers, then cover and refrigerate. Grill straight from the fridge — no need to get them to room temperature.
Are these skewers suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These skewers are an excellent addition to your meal prep regimen. They can be made in larger batches, stored in the fridge, and simply reheated when needed, making them a convenient choice for busy days.
Can I cook these skewers in the oven?
Yes! If you cannot grill outside, you can cook these skewers in an oven. Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**, place the skewers on a baking sheet, and roast for about **15–20 minutes** or until the veggies are tender and halloumi is golden.
Conclusion: Grilled veggie and halloumi skewers make for a vibrant and delicious summer meal perfect for busy evenings or entertaining guests. Their versatility and ease of preparation not only appeal to busy parents and kitchen beginners, but they also offer a great opportunity to get creative with seasonal produce. Get ready to indulge in a dish that is not just satisfying but a true celebration of summer’s bounty!
