Air Fryer Halloumi is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this Mediterranean cheese. The air fryer gives the halloumi a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and slightly gooey. Here’s a simple recipe to make perfectly air-fried halloumi:
Air Fryer Halloumi Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil (or cooking spray)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or mint (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Halloumi
Slice the halloumi cheese into ½-inch thick pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy texture.
2. Season the Halloumi
Brush or spray the halloumi slices with olive oil. Sprinkle with dried oregano (or thyme), paprika, and black pepper if desired. This adds extra flavor and helps with crisping.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply let it run at the cooking temperature for a few minutes.
4. Air Fry the Halloumi
Place the halloumi slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
5. Cook
Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the halloumi is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook or burn.
6. Serve
Remove the halloumi from the air fryer and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- As an Appetizer: Serve with a side of tzatziki, hummus, or a fresh salad.
- In a Salad: Add to salads for a flavorful and protein-packed addition.
- As a Snack: Enjoy on its own or with a dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Halloumi:
- Uniform Thickness: Slice the halloumi into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the halloumi slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they crisp up evenly.
- Watch Closely: Halloumi can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of cooking.
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Air Fryer Halloumi! It’s a simple yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.