Sliders with Halloumi

Name: Sliders with Halloumi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 4 halloumi slices; 4 small burger buns; 2 cups arugula or mixed greens; 1 ripe tomato, sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; Olive oil for grilling; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up these sliders with halloumi because they're not only quick and easy, but they're also a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior of the halloumi paired with the soft bun creates a satisfying bite, and it's garnished with fresh ingredients that elevate the taste. Perfect for any get-together, these sliders always impress my friends and family, making them a go-to recipe for casual gatherings or a cozy night in. You'll find that they disappear in no time!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:40:08.824Z

When I first tried making sliders with halloumi, I was skeptical. I didn't think a cheese could hold up as a main component in a sandwich, but I was pleasantly surprised! The firm texture of halloumi makes it an ideal candidate for grilling, giving it a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside creamy. I always add a few vegetables for freshness, which rounds out the flavors perfectly.

This dish has become a favorite of mine, especially during summer barbecues. The simplicity of the recipe allows me to focus on quality ingredients. Using fresh bread rolls and crisp greens ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. I recommend experimenting with different toppings to find your perfect combination!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Delicious crispy halloumi that adds a unique flavor.
Versatile toppings for customization to suit your taste.

      

Mastering the Halloumi

Halloumi is known for its unique ability to hold its shape when cooked, making it an ideal choice for grilling. When preparing your halloumi slices, aim for about half an inch thick; this thickness allows for a nice golden crust while keeping the center soft and chewy. Additionally, preheating your grill pan or skillet adequately is key—use medium heat to prevent the cheese from sticking and ensure it cooks evenly. You'll know the cheese is ready when it begins to develop a golden edge and exudes a warm, enticing aroma.

To enhance the flavor of your halloumi, consider marinating it briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, or herbs like oregano before grilling. This not only adds depth of flavor but also helps in achieving a beautifully caramelized texture. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding spices such as smoked paprika or garlic powder to the oil for a unique twist. These flavorful enhancements work wonderfully with the sliders, contributing to an unforgettable taste experience.

Perfecting the Sliders

The choice of toppings can transform your sliders into a flavorful delight. While arugula or mixed greens provide a nice peppery crunch, consider adding pickled red onions or spicy aioli for an added kick. To balance the richness of the halloumi and avocado, a slice of tangy cheese like feta can also work beautifully, elevating your dish further. Don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables as well; grilled zucchini or roasted bell peppers would complement the sliders perfectly.

When toasting the burger buns, keep a close eye on them as they can toast quickly, leading to overly crunchy results. Toast them over low heat until they are lightly golden on the edges, ensuring they retain a soft interior. This not only enhances the bun's flavor but also adds a delightful texture contrast to the crispy halloumi. For a gluten-free option, use lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary preferences—all without sacrificing flavor or fun!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delightful sliders with halloumi:

Ingredients

4 halloumi slices
4 small burger buns
2 cups arugula or mixed greens
1 ripe tomato, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
Olive oil for grilling
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your sliders:

Prepare the Halloumi

Brush the halloumi slices lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Cook the Cheese

Place the halloumi slices on the hot grill pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the burger buns lightly. On the bottom half, layer arugula, followed by a slice of halloumi, tomato, and avocado. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve

Arrange the sliders on a serving plate and enjoy immediately while warm.

Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking!

Pro Tips

For a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to your sliders.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator but consider storing the components separately to maintain freshness. The halloumi can become chewy if reheated, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to reheat, place the halloumi on a skillet over medium heat for just a minute on each side until warmed, allowing it to regain some crispiness.

Alternatively, if you want to meal prep, grill extra halloumi slices in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can easily reassemble the sliders fresh each time you want to enjoy them, which makes for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Creative Variations

Feel free to mix up the ingredients for your sliders! Instead of traditional burger buns, try pita pockets or naan bread for a Mediterranean twist. You can also explore different cheeses; for example, swapping halloumi with grilled goat cheese adds a tangy flavor profile. Another variation is to add a layer of pesto on the bun, which offers a burst of herbaceous freshness that complements the creamy avocado wonderfully.

Don’t forget about the sauce! A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the assembled sliders adds a sweet and savory depth that harmonizes beautifully with the grilled halloumi. For a spicy kick, a smear of harissa or sriracha can elevate the flavor, making every bite an exciting experience. Customize your sliders based on your mood and available ingredients for endless delicious variations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of halloumi?

Yes, you can use other grilling cheeses like paneer or feta, but halloumi is ideal for its unique texture.

→ Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

While it's best to grill the halloumi fresh, you can prep the vegetables and buns in advance for quick assembly.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, these sliders are completely vegetarian and make a delicious meatless option!