This halloumi and watermelon dish screams summer. It is quick, easy, refreshing and incredibly delicious. I think of it more as a presentation than a recipe. After you have made it once, you will not need the recipe again.

What is Halloumi?

Halloumi is a brined cheese traditionally made from goat and sheep milk that records show has been prevalent in Cyprus since the 1500s. It may have originated in Bedouin tribes in the Middle East as long as 1500 years ago.  Traditionally, halloumi was wrapped in mint leaves then brined to preserve it. When you see small dark flecks in your halloumi, it is bits of mint.

Where to Buy Halloumi

Halloumi can be purchased in many stores, including Costco, Trader Joe's, Bristol Farms, Whole Foods, Gelson's, Pavillions and Ralph's.

How to Cook Halloumi Cheese

Halloumi, also called grilling cheese, is typically grilled or sauteéd, but it can also be baked. When cooked, halloumi develops a brown crust on the outside and softens, but doesn't melt on the inside. I prefer sauteéing or baking over grilling because I worry about losing bits of precious cheese between my grill grates. .If you choose to sauteé your Halloumi, I recommend doing so over a medium-low heat. It is easy to overcook the Halloumi if you start with a hight heat. Go easy on the heat and flip when the first side is golden brown.

A Word About Olive Oil

In my home I use olive oil for everything, including sauteeing, drizzling, marinating and even baking. See my olive oil cakes for a sweet way to use great olive oil. Orange-scented Chocolate Olive Oil Cake Pear, Almond and Rosemary Olive Oil Cake Pumpkin Olive Oil Cake with Espresso and Almonds Passionfruit Olive Oil Cake Grownup Carrot Cake I always have at least two olive oils on hand; one for cooking and one for finishing. My favorite olive oil brand is Stonehouse Olive Oils. I say this simply because I love their products. I do not have a financial relationship with the company. I buy their House Blend and Olio Santo for cooking and a variety of their premium and flavored olive oils for finishing and other uses. You can't go wrong. All their products are all high quality and delicious.

Halloumi and Watermelon is a Traditional Combination

Again, I almost hesitate to write this up as a recipe, because Halloumi and watermelon are really just an amazing combination of ingredients that are quite common in Cypress and the Mediterranean. Once you have made it, no recipe is required. I am posting it because I don't want you to miss out on this refreshing combination. I have not included specific quantities for the ingredients. I leave the quantities to you. My husband, JP, insisted I write this one up as it is one of his favorite dishes. Print