Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a non-stick or cast-iron pan over medium heat and add 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to warm until it shimmers slightly but doesn’t smoke. Using moderate heat is important to get a crispy exterior without burning the cheese.
Step 3: Fry the Halloumi
Carefully place the halloumi slices into the pan in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, or the slices won’t crisp evenly. Fry for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until each slice turns golden brown and develops a firm, slightly crispy crust. Use a spatula to gently flip the slices to avoid breaking them.
Step 4: Add the Lemon
Once the halloumi is golden on both sides, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice immediately. The acidity of the lemon perfectly balances the salty richness of the halloumi, creating a simple yet sophisticated flavor combination.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your pan-fried halloumi is ready to serve! Enjoy it as a warm snack, add it to salads, or pair it with grilled vegetables or bread. For extra flair, sprinkle chopped parsley, chili flakes, or a light drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory twist.
Tips for Perfect Pan-Fried Halloumi
- Do not overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- Pat dry thoroughly: Moisture can prevent the cheese from crisping properly.
- Serve immediately: Halloumi is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan, as it can become rubbery if left to cool for too long.
With just three ingredients and 10 minutes, this simple pan-fried halloumi recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its crispy exterior, soft salty interior, and zesty lemon finish make it irresistible. Whether for a quick snack or a fancy appetizer, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.
If you want, I can also make a version with a few extra flavor hacks that still keeps it super simple but gives it an even fancier taste. Do you want me to do that?
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