Air fryer halloumi is a delightful dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The halloumi cheese becomes golden and crispy, giving a wonderful texture that is hard to resist. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty snack or appetizer that everyone will love.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This air fryer halloumi is great because it’s quick and simple. You only need a few basic ingredients. It offers a cozy, cheesy flavor that’s hard to beat. Plus, the air fryer does the work, making it a healthier option without losing that crispy goodness. This dish is perfect for snacks, gatherings, or even as part of a meal.

How to Prepare Halloumi

To make yummy air fryer halloumi, you’ll just slice the cheese, season it, and air fry it. The air fryer gives that lovely crispy surface while keeping the cheese creamy inside. Plus, you can have it ready in no time!

What You Need

Halloumi cheese
Olive oil
Paprika
Black pepper
Garlic powder

Step-by-Step

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the halloumi cheese into slices.
In a bowl, drizzle olive oil over the cheese and sprinkle paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Toss gently to coat the cheese evenly.
Place the halloumi slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Serve hot as a snack or appetizer.

How to Serve Halloumi

This crispy halloumi pairs well with fresh salads, dips, or even on top of flatbreads. You can enjoy it with a squeeze of lemon or add it to a meze platter. It’s also fantastic as a topping on burgers or sandwiches. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!

How to Store Halloumi

To store leftovers, place the cooled halloumi in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. For reheating, simply pop it back into the air fryer for a few minutes until warm and crispy again. Unfortunately, halloumi doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to eat it fresh.

Recipe Tips

Slice the halloumi evenly for consistent cooking.
Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; this helps achieve the perfect crisp.
Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.
For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper.
Try using flavored olive oil for extra taste.
Always flip halfway to get even browning.
You can drizzle some honey over it before serving for a sweet touch.
If new to cooking, keep an eye on the cheese to avoid overcooking.
Always aim for a golden brown color for the best crunch!

Variations & Swaps

Add herbs like oregano or thyme for a fresh twist.
For a Mediterranean vibe, try marinating the halloumi in lemon juice and herbs before cooking.
Make it kid-friendly by sticking to simple seasonings like salt and pepper.
Swap halloumi for tofu for a vegan option; the texture will differ, but it’s still tasty.
Serve with a sweet chili sauce to balance the salty cheese.

FAQs

Can I make this halloumi ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the halloumi and season it a few hours in advance. Just store in the fridge until ready to cook.

Can I freeze the leftover halloumi?
It’s best not to freeze cooked halloumi, as it can change texture when thawed. Enjoy it fresh!

How do I reheat halloumi?
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes until warm. This keeps it crispy.

Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use different spices or oils based on your preferences. Feel free to be creative!

What should I avoid when cooking halloumi?
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer and make sure to watch the cooking time closely to prevent burning.