Hairy Bikers Halloumi Melon Salad Recipe

This sweet, salty Hairy Bikers Halloumi Melon Salad Recipe is made with fresh watermelon, thick halloumi slices, and ready in 20 minutes. The crisp, juicy melon cuts right through the rich, golden crust of the pan-fried cheese. I find this combination unbeatable on a warm afternoon.

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Why This Classic Works

I used to think mixing fruit and cheese in a salad was strange. Then I realised the high salt content of halloumi needs something refreshing to balance it out.

The trick is getting the pan smoking hot before adding the cheese. If you cook it too slowly, it releases water and boils instead of frying.

Hairy Bikers Halloumi Melon Salad Recipe Ingredients

• 250g halloumi cheese, sliced into 1cm thick pieces
• 500g watermelon, rind removed and cubed
• 1 small red onion, finely sliced
• 1 handful fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 pinch of black pepper

How To Make Hairy Bikers Halloumi Melon Salad Recipe

1. Prepare The Salad Base: Toss the watermelon cubes, sliced red onion, and fresh mint in a large serving bowl.
2. Mix The Dressing: Whisk the olive oil, lime juice, and black pepper together in a small jug until combined.
3. Fry The Cheese: Heat a dry frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the halloumi slices for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Assemble And Serve: Lay the warm halloumi over the melon mixture, drizzle with the dressing, and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

• Dry the cheese: Pat the halloumi slices dry with kitchen paper before frying to ensure a crisp, golden crust.
• Serve immediately: Warm halloumi turns rubbery once it cools down, so assemble this salad right before eating.
• Chill the melon: Keep the watermelon in the fridge until the very last moment for maximum temperature contrast.

What To Serve With Halloumi Melon Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or spiced lamb skewers. You can also serve it alongside warm flatbreads to soak up the sweet and salty dressing.

How To Store

This salad does not store well because the halloumi becomes rubbery and the melon releases too much water. Only make as much as you plan to eat in one sitting.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of melon?

Yes, cantaloupe or honeydew work just as well as watermelon. They provide a similar sweetness and firm texture.

Do I need oil to fry the halloumi?

No, halloumi has a high fat content and will release its own oils in a hot pan. A dry, non-stick pan is best.

Can I add nuts to this salad?

Absolutely. Toasted pistachios or pine nuts add an excellent crunch that complements the soft cheese.

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Total Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 12g
• Protein: 14g

Try More Recipes:

• Hairy Bikers Sausage Tortellini in Brodo Recipe
• Hairy Bikers Chicken Mushroom Soup Recipe
• Hairy Bikers Filipino Pork Menudo Recipe