10 Kosher Recipes Using Halloumi

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If you love cheese that holds its shape, grills beautifully, and delivers a salty, satisfying bite, then Halloumi deserves a permanent spot in your kosher kitchen. Originating in Cyprus, halloumi is traditionally made from sheep’s and goat’s milk (sometimes cow’s milk) and is naturally rennet-set — making it easy to find with reliable kosher certification.

Because it doesn’t melt like mozzarella, halloumi is ideal for grilling, frying, baking, and even skewering. Below are 10 delicious kosher-friendly recipes that highlight this Mediterranean favorite.

1️⃣ Grilled Halloumi & Roasted Vegetable Platter

Thick slices of halloumi grilled until golden and crispy on the outside, soft inside. Serve alongside roasted zucchini, eggplant, red peppers, and cherry tomatoes.

Flavor boost: Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and za’atar.
Kosher note: Perfect for dairy meals or Shavuot spreads.

2️⃣ Halloumi Shakshuka Upgrade

Add pan-seared cubes of halloumi to your classic shakshuka for a protein-packed twist.

Start with a base of tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and warm spices. Add halloumi before cracking in eggs so it browns slightly but keeps its structure.

Serve with: Warm challah or pita (for dairy meals).

3️⃣ Halloumi & Watermelon Salad

A refreshing Israeli-inspired salad pairing salty halloumi with sweet watermelon.

Grilled halloumi cubes
Watermelon chunks
Fresh mint
Arugula
Lime dressing

The salty-sweet combination is summer perfection.

4️⃣ Halloumi Tacos (Vegetarian & Kosher)

Swap meat for thick-cut grilled halloumi strips.

Layer in corn tortillas with:

Avocado
Shredded cabbage
Pico de gallo
Chipotle mayo (pareve or dairy)

Crispy edges + creamy interior = taco night upgrade.

5️⃣ Halloumi & Mushroom Skewers

Thread cubes of halloumi with:

Button mushrooms
Red onion
Zucchini

Brush with olive oil and grill. These hold beautifully on skewers without melting off.

Perfect for: BBQs where you want a satisfying vegetarian kosher option.

6️⃣ Mediterranean Halloumi Grain Bowl

Build a nourishing bowl with:

Quinoa or farro
Roasted chickpeas
Cucumber
Cherry tomatoes
Tahini drizzle
Seared halloumi slices

It’s hearty enough for a full dairy dinner.

7️⃣ Crispy Halloumi Fries

Cut halloumi into sticks, coat lightly in cornstarch, and pan-fry until golden.

Serve with:

Garlic yogurt dip (dairy meal)
Spicy harissa mayo (pareve option)

These are wildly addictive and kid-friendly.

8️⃣ Halloumi Stuffed Peppers

Mix chopped halloumi with spinach, herbs, and a touch of ricotta. Stuff into halved bell peppers and bake until tender.

Top with fresh parsley and lemon zest before serving.

9️⃣ Halloumi & Pesto Flatbread

Spread pesto on a flatbread, layer thin slices of halloumi, and bake until lightly browned.

Finish with cherry tomatoes and balsamic glaze.

Shavuot-friendly and elegant for entertaining.

🔟 Halloumi Breakfast Hash

Sauté diced potatoes, onions, and peppers until crispy. Add cubed halloumi at the end so it browns but stays chewy.

Top with a fried egg for a satisfying dairy brunch dish.

🧂 Tips for Cooking Halloumi

✔️ Cook in a dry pan or lightly oiled skillet.
✔️ Slice thick — thin slices can become rubbery.
✔️ Serve immediately for best texture.
✔️ Always check for reliable kosher certification.

Final Thoughts

Halloumi is one of the most versatile cheeses in a kosher kitchen. It’s protein-rich, naturally firm, and pairs beautifully with Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re planning a dairy holiday menu, a summer BBQ, or simply want something new for Meatless Monday, these 10 recipes bring creativity and bold flavor to your table.

Yeliy