Crispy Air-Fried Halloumi with Honey Drizzle

Crispy Air-Fried Halloumi with Honey Drizzle is a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer or snack that perfectly balances salty, crispy cheese with a touch of sweetness. Air frying ensures a golden, crunchy texture without the need for excessive oil, making this a lighter yet indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
• Crispy & Golden: The air fryer gives the halloumi a perfect crunch.
• Sweet & Savory: The combination of salty cheese and honey is irresistible.
• Great for Entertaining: A unique, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as a snack, in salads, or as a side dish.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch pieces
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Honey, for drizzling
• Fresh thyme or oregano (optional, for garnish)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the Halloumi: Lightly coat the halloumi slices with olive oil or spray to enhance crispiness.
3. Air Fry: Place the halloumi in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drizzle with Honey: Once cooked, transfer to a plate and drizzle with honey.
5. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme or oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 13 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of hot honey or extra red pepper flakes.
• Herby Flavor: Toss with fresh basil, mint, or dill.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute honey with orange blossom honey or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a yogurt dip or balsamic glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Freezing: Not recommended as halloumi can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I pan-fry instead of air-frying?

Yes! Simply cook the halloumi in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.

What type of honey works best?

Any variety works, but raw or floral honey enhances the flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Halloumi is a dairy-based cheese, so there’s no direct substitute, but you can try firm tofu for a similar texture.

What can I serve with air-fried halloumi?

It pairs well with fresh salads, pita bread, hummus, or grilled vegetables.

Why is my halloumi rubbery?

Overcooking can make halloumi tough—stick to the recommended cooking time.

Do I need to soak halloumi before cooking?

Soaking is optional but can help reduce the saltiness if desired.

Can I use flavored halloumi?

Absolutely! Variations like chili or herb-infused halloumi add extra depth of flavor.

Is halloumi vegetarian?

Most brands are vegetarian, but check labels as some may contain animal rennet.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup provides a different but equally delicious sweetness.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Halloumi is best served fresh, but you can pre-slice it and store it in the fridge for quick air-frying.

Conclusion

Crispy Air-Fried Halloumi with Honey Drizzle is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, snack, or side, the crispy, salty halloumi paired with sweet honey is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of texture and flavor!

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