Pistachio-Crusted Halloumi with Honey and Thyme Recipe
Introduction
Pistachio-Crusted Halloumi with Honey and Thyme is a delightful combination of salty, crunchy, and sweet flavors. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as an appetizer or a savory snack that impresses with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat the halloumi slices dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Dredge each halloumi slice in flour, dip into the beaten egg, then coat evenly with chopped pistachios, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 3: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the coated halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 4: Transfer the halloumi to a serving plate. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the pistachios lightly before chopping.
- Substitute thyme with fresh rosemary or oregano for a different herbal note.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly twist.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the crispy crust. Halloumi is best enjoyed fresh, so avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Yes, chopped almonds or walnuts make a great substitute if you prefer a different flavor or need to avoid pistachios.
Is halloumi suitable for grilling instead of frying?
Absolutely. You can grill the pistachio-coated halloumi slices on a medium heat grill for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
PrintPistachio-Crusted Halloumi with Honey and Thyme Recipe
This Pistachio-Crusted Halloumi recipe features salty halloumi cheese slices coated in a crunchy pistachio crust, pan-fried to golden perfection and finished with a drizzle of sweet honey and aromatic fresh thyme. A delightful appetizer or light snack that combines contrasting textures and flavors for an irresistible bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Halloumi: Pat the halloumi slices dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then lightly season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Coat the Cheese: Dredge each halloumi slice in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured slices into the beaten egg, ensuring they are fully coated. Finally, press each slice into the finely chopped pistachios so the nuts adhere evenly, forming a crunchy crust.
- Cook the Halloumi: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the pistachio-coated halloumi slices into the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the exterior turns golden brown and crispy while the cheese softens inside.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked halloumi slices to a serving plate. Drizzle generously with honey for a touch of sweetness, and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top for an aromatic finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and melty cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh halloumi cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Make sure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the halloumi to achieve a crispy crust.
- You can substitute thyme with rosemary or oregano based on preference.
- For a nut-free version, omit pistachios and use sesame seeds for crust.
- This dish is best served warm to maintain the cheese’s melty texture.
Keywords: halloumi recipe, pistachio crust, fried cheese, Mediterranean appetizer, honey and thyme halloumi
