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As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite as invigorating as a fresh salad that encapsulates the essence of summer. Enter the Grilled Halloumi & Watermelon Salad, a vibrant dish that beautifully balances flavors and textures for a truly delightful culinary experience. This salad combines the salty richness of grilled halloumi with the sweet juiciness of ripe watermelon, creating a harmony that is both refreshing and satisfying. It’s the perfect addition to any summer gathering or a light meal on a warm day.

Grilled Halloumi & Watermelon Salad

Discover the perfect summer dish with this Grilled Halloumi & Watermelon Salad! Combining the salty richness of grilled halloumi with the sweet juiciness of ripe watermelon, this salad is a feast for the senses. Enhanced by peppery arugula and refreshing mint, each bite offers a delightful crunch and vibrant flavors. Finish it off with a simple vinaigrette for an invigorating and light meal that's perfect for gatherings or a solo lunch. Enjoy a taste of summer!
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Ingredients
  

250g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1 cm thick pieces

4 cups watermelon, cubed and seeds removed

2 cups arugula (rocket)

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

Salt and pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 lime

Juice of 1 lime

Optional: toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Grill: Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for grilling.

    Prepare the Salad Base: In a spacious bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, arugula, and roughly chopped fresh mint leaves. Carefully toss the ingredients together to ensure an even mix without bruising the watermelon.

      Marinate the Watermelon: Drizzle half of the extra virgin olive oil and the fresh lime juice over the watermelon mixture. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Allow this mixture to marinate at room temperature while you prepare the halloumi.

        Grill the Halloumi: Brush the halloumi slices on both sides with the remaining olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Place the halloumi cheese on the hot grill. Grill for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese has developed a beautiful golden-brown crust and distinct grill marks.

          Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, lime zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This vibrant dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully.

            Assemble the Salad: Once the halloumi is perfectly grilled, remove it from the heat and arrange it on top of the watermelon salad mixture. Drizzle the prepared dressing generously over the entire salad to tie the ingredients together.

              Garnish and Serve: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds over the salad before serving. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the halloumi is still warm and the flavors are fresh.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 4 servings

                  Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl or on a platter, allowing the vibrant colors to shine. Consider adding additional mint leaves on top as a garnish for an appealing touch.