**Grilled Halloumi with Olive Oil and Herbs**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz (225g) halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Freshly ground black pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Halloumi:**
– Pat the halloumi slices dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps the cheese to get a nice char on the grill without sticking.
2. **Grill the Halloumi:**
– Heat a grill pan or an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. You can also use a regular non-stick skillet if you don’t have a grill pan.
– Place the halloumi slices on the hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese has nice grill marks and is golden brown. The cheese should be warm and soft inside, but not melted.
3. **Prepare the Dressing:**
– While the halloumi is grilling, in a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. **Assemble the Dish:**
– Arrange the grilled halloumi on a serving plate. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice mixture over the cheese.
– Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top, and add a few grinds of freshly ground black pepper.
5. **Serve:**
– Serve immediately while the halloumi is still warm. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fresh salads, or as part of a mezze platter.
Enjoy your grilled halloumi with its savory, slightly tangy flavor, enhanced by the fresh herbs and olive oil!
