Introduction to Air Fryer Halloumi
A Simple and Tasty Air Fryer Snack
Air Fryer Halloumi is an easy-to-make snack that transforms this popular cheese into a crispy, golden treat. Halloumi’s unique ability to hold its shape when cooked makes it an ideal choice for air frying. Unlike many cheeses, halloumi doesn’t melt easily, allowing it to crisp up perfectly while keeping its soft, chewy center. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an appetizer, or even a topping for salads, Air Fryer Halloumi fits the bill.
This dish is incredibly versatile, and the best part is that it can be made with minimal ingredients, taking only a few minutes to prepare. With just olive oil, smoked paprika, and halloumi – how to cook halloumi –, you can create a crispy, savory snack that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You Should Try Air Fryer Halloumi
Halloumi is an incredibly popular cheese because of its high melting point. When cooked, it develops a delightful golden-brown crust while retaining its firm, slightly squeaky texture. The air fryer enhances this by cooking the cheese quickly and evenly, creating a crispy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with its creamy interior. Plus, the air fryer uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, making it a healthier option.
This snack is easy to make and customize, allowing you to experiment with various seasonings like oregano, thyme, or even a hint of garlic powder. If you love simple, crunchy snacks with a rich, savory flavor, you’ll want to try making Air Fryer Halloumi.
Basic Recipe: How to Make Air Fryer Halloumi
Print
Crispy and Golden Air Fryer Halloumi – Quick and Flavorful Recipe
- Total Time: 10-13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (depends on the size of slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Air Fryer Halloumi is a simple, quick, and delicious way to enjoy this savory, slightly salty cheese. The halloumi gets crispy on the outside while staying soft and tender on the inside. Seasoned with olive oil and optional flavorings like smoked paprika or mixed herbs, this easy recipe makes a great appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Ingredients
- 225g halloumi (cut into 6cm x 1cm thick slices)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika, mixed herbs, or other flavorings (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Halloumi:
Slice the halloumi into 6cm x 1cm thick pieces. You can adjust the size to your preference, but thinner slices will crisp up more quickly.
Season the Halloumi:
Drizzle the olive oil over the halloumi slices and toss them to coat evenly.
If desired, sprinkle the smoked paprika, mixed herbs, or any other seasoning you like over the cheese. This adds extra flavor and enhances the crispy texture.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Air Fry the Halloumi:
Place the halloumi slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded so that air can circulate around each piece, ensuring they cook evenly.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through for even browning and crispiness. The halloumi should be golden and crispy on the outside while soft on the inside.
Serve:
Once the halloumi is golden and crispy, remove it from the air fryer.
Serve immediately as a snack, appetizer, or alongside salads, dips, or grilled vegetables.
Notes
Halloumi is best served immediately after air frying, as it tends to lose its crispy texture if left out for too long.
You can experiment with different flavorings like chili flakes, garlic powder, or za’atar for a unique twist.
If you prefer your halloumi extra crispy, you can air fry it for a minute or two longer.
This recipe can easily be doubled or adjusted based on how much halloumi you have.
- Prep Time: 2-3 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Mediterranean Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 slices (based on 225g of halloumi)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Air Fryer Halloumi
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Halloumi:
Begin by cutting your halloumi into slices about 6cm x 1cm thick. This size ensures the halloumi cooks evenly and crisps up perfectly. If you prefer smaller pieces, feel free to cut the slices into smaller chunks. Halloumi’s unique texture holds up well, even with different shapes. - Season the Halloumi:
Drizzle the olive oil over the halloumi slices to help the seasoning stick. Then sprinkle the slices with smoked paprika for a rich smoky flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, use regular paprika instead. You can also mix in herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary to create a personalized taste. For a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the halloumi cooks evenly and crisps up quickly. This step usually takes about 3 minutes, depending on your air fryer model. - Cook the Halloumi:
Place the seasoned halloumi slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the slices are not overlapping, as this allows the hot air to circulate evenly around the cheese. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure they brown evenly on both sides. You’ll know the halloumi is ready when it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once the halloumi is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately. The crispy, golden slices are best enjoyed hot, right out of the air fryer. You can serve them as a snack, appetizer, or as a topping for salads or grain bowls.
Advanced Techniques: Enhancing Your Air Fryer Halloumi
Experiment with Seasonings
The beauty of Air Fryer Halloumi is its versatility when it comes to seasonings. While smoked paprika is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to find your perfect flavor combination. For a more Mediterranean taste, try adding oregano, rosemary, and a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking. For a spicier kick, sprinkle the halloumi with cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
If you enjoy savory flavors, garlic powder and onion powder can also elevate the taste. Mixing herbs like thyme and basil will bring a more fragrant, earthy touch to the dish.
Make it a Meal
Air Fryer Halloumi can easily be turned into a full meal by pairing it with the right accompaniments. For example, serve it with a side of fresh greens such as arugula or spinach for a light salad. You can also add roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, to create a more substantial dish.
For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve the halloumi alongside a tabbouleh salad or hummus. Alternatively, add it to a grain bowl with quinoa or couscous, and drizzle with tahini sauce or yogurt for a satisfying dish.
Create Halloumi Skewers
Want to turn your Air Fryer Halloumi into a fun appetizer? Thread the halloumi slices onto skewers and cook them in the air fryer for a unique presentation. You can alternate the halloumi with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or even grilled shrimp for a more filling meal. Simply air fry the skewers for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Storing Leftover Halloumi
If you have any leftover Air Fryer Halloumi, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for 2-3 days, but be aware that the texture may soften slightly after storage. To keep it crispy, try reheating it in the air fryer.
Reheating Halloumi
Reheating leftover halloumi can be done by placing it back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This will bring the cheese back to its crispy state without overcooking it. You can also reheat it in a pan over low heat, flipping the slices occasionally.
Freezing Air Fryer Halloumi
Freezing halloumi is not ideal, as the texture can change once thawed. However, if you do choose to freeze it, wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat from frozen, cook the halloumi in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Vegan Substitute
For a vegan version of this recipe, you can substitute the halloumi with firm tofu or plant-based cheese. Tofu is an excellent alternative because it crisps up well in the air fryer. To achieve a similar flavor profile, season it with smoked paprika and garlic powder, and then cook it in the air fryer in the same way.
Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly
Halloumi is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s also rich in protein and fat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. Pair your Air Fryer Halloumi with a side of avocado or a fresh green salad to complete your keto meal.
Gluten-Free Option
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as halloumi cheese doesn’t contain gluten. You can safely enjoy it if you have a gluten intolerance or are following a gluten-free diet.
FAQs About Air Fryer Halloumi
Can I Use Non-Smoked Paprika?
Yes, you can use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika. While smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor, regular paprika will still provide a nice, mild taste. If you prefer, you can also experiment with other spices, such as cumin or curry powder, to create different flavor profiles.
What Else Can I Pair Halloumi With?
Air Fried Halloumi pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes. Halloumi also makes a great addition to wraps, pita pockets, or grain bowls. You can drizzle it with tahini or yogurt sauce to add extra creaminess.
How Do I Prevent Halloumi from Getting Too Dry?
To keep your halloumi moist and flavorful, avoid overcooking it. Cook the slices until they are golden and crispy, but don’t let them sit in the air fryer for too long. Flip the slices halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and prevent them from becoming dry.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Halloumi is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for snacking or as part of a larger meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crispy, golden treat that everyone will love. Experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor and serve it with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired feast, Air Fryer Halloumi is sure to be a new favorite in your recipe rotation.