Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in a simple yet impressive salad. The grilled halloumi develops a crispy golden crust while staying soft inside, and the juicy nectarines perfectly balance its salty richness. I also appreciate how quickly everything comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual outdoor meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 ounces (225 g) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 2 ears fresh corn, husks removed
- 2 ripe nectarines, sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup arugula
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
- 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- I preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- I brush the corn lightly with olive oil and grill it until lightly charred on all sides. Once it cools slightly, I cut the kernels from the cob.
- I grill the halloumi slices for about 2–3 minutes per side until they develop golden grill marks.
- I whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- I combine the mixed greens, arugula, grilled corn, sliced nectarines, red onion, basil, and mint in a large serving bowl.
- I drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together.
- I arrange the warm grilled halloumi on top and finish with toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds before serving immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- I add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- I substitute peaches for nectarines when they’re in season.
- I include grilled zucchini or asparagus for additional vegetables.
- I sprinkle crumbled feta along with the halloumi for even more cheesy flavor.
- I drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished salad for a touch of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If possible, I keep the dressing separate until serving to help the greens stay crisp. I also store the grilled halloumi separately and reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes per side before adding it back to the salad. I avoid microwaving the halloumi because it can become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use canned or frozen corn?
Yes. I prefer fresh corn for its sweetness and texture, but I can use canned or frozen corn if I drain or thaw it well before grilling or sautéing.
What does halloumi taste like?
Halloumi has a mild, salty flavor with a firm texture that becomes wonderfully crisp on the outside while staying soft inside when grilled.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. I prepare all the ingredients in advance and keep the dressing separate. I grill the halloumi just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with this salad?
I like serving it with grilled chicken, seafood, crusty bread, or as part of a larger summer barbecue spread.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes. This recipe is already vegetarian. I simply make sure the halloumi and any additional ingredients fit my dietary preferences.
Conclusion
I enjoy making Grilled Halloumi, Corn & Nectarine Salad because it showcases fresh seasonal ingredients in a colorful and flavorful way. The smoky corn, juicy nectarines, crisp greens, and golden grilled halloumi create a delicious balance that’s perfect for warm-weather meals. Whether I serve it as a main course or alongside grilled favorites, this salad always brings freshness and vibrant flavor to the table.
PrintGrilled Halloumi, Corn & Nectarine Salad
Grilled Halloumi, Corn & Nectarine Salad is a fresh, colorful dish that pairs salty grilled halloumi with sweet nectarines, smoky corn, and crisp greens. It’s a vibrant summer salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (225 g) halloumi cheese, sliced
- 2 ears fresh corn, husks removed
- 2 ripe nectarines, sliced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup arugula
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
- 2 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Lightly brush the corn with olive oil and grill until lightly charred on all sides. Allow it to cool slightly, then cut the kernels from the cob.
- Grill the halloumi slices for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden with grill marks.
- Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Combine the mixed greens, arugula, grilled corn, sliced nectarines, red onion, basil, and mint in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
- Arrange the warm grilled halloumi on top and sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds before serving immediately.
Notes
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Substitute peaches for nectarines when in season.
- Include grilled zucchini or asparagus for additional vegetables.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad for extra cheesy flavor.
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, keeping the dressing and halloumi separate when possible. Reheat the halloumi in a skillet for the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 690 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg