Sliders with Halloumi

Name: Sliders with Halloumi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 250g Halloumi cheese, sliced; 4 small slider buns; 1 medium tomato, sliced; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; Handful of arugula or spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: yogurt sauce for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love creating flavorful sliders, and these Halloumi sliders never disappoint! They are an exquisite balance of crispy, salty cheese with a delightful array of fresh toppings. As a fun twist on traditional sliders, they bring a taste of the Mediterranean to my table. I often serve them at gatherings or simply as a light meal. With their satisfying bite and vibrant flavors, these sliders are perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Get ready to indulge in a taste experience that’s both simple and delicious!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-06T09:55:11.889Z

When I first tried these Halloumi sliders, I was amazed by how easy they were to make yet how gourmet they tasted. The first step is grilling the Halloumi until it’s golden brown, which adds a rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh ingredients. I like to top them off with a tangy yogurt sauce and crisp veggies for texture and freshness.

Through trial and error, I learned that using a non-stick pan or grilling directly over moderate heat preserves the integrity of the cheese without it falling apart. This ensures each bite is a satisfying mix of gooey and crunchy, creating a delightful contrast that elevates the whole meal!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Crispy, golden Halloumi that melts beautifully in your mouth
Fresh toppings add a burst of flavor and crunch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Perfecting Your Halloumi

Halloumi is a unique cheese known for its high melting point, which makes it ideal for grilling. When cooking, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the cheese; this will create a beautiful sear and enhance the flavor. Use medium heat to prevent burning while still achieving a gorgeous golden crust. The cheese should sizzle upon contact with the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it develops a nice brown color without becoming too soft.

If you find Halloumi too salty for your taste, soak the slices in water for about 30 minutes prior to cooking. This technique helps draw out some of the saltiness, leaving you with a milder flavor that still packs a punch when paired with fresh toppings. Additionally, feel free to experiment with grilling instead of pan-frying; simply brush the cheese with olive oil and place it directly on a hot grill for that smoky flavor.

Building Flavor with Toppings

The toppings you choose for your sliders can elevate the dish from good to great. Fresh ingredients like crisp cucumber and juicy tomatoes not only add color but also introduce texture and moisture that counterbalance the richness of the Halloumi. Consider adding thinly sliced red onion or roasted red peppers for an extra layer of flavor. I like to create a vibrant spread of ingredients so every bite feels exciting, with each topping contributing its unique essence.

For a variation, try adding sliced avocado for creaminess or pickled vegetables for a tangy twist. You can even switch out the arugula for other greens, such as sprouted lentils or cabbage, depending on your preference. These changes not only enhance nutrition but also give each slider a distinct personality. For an added kick, consider mixing some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into your yogurt sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Halloumi sliders:

Ingredients

250g Halloumi cheese, sliced
4 small slider buns
1 medium tomato, sliced
1/2 cucumber, sliced
Handful of arugula or spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: yogurt sauce for topping

Once all your ingredients are ready, let’s move on to cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your sliders:

Grill the Halloumi

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the Halloumi slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Toast the Buns

While the cheese is grilling, split the slider buns and toast them lightly in a separate pan or under a broiler until they’re golden.

Assemble the Sliders

On the bottom half of each toasted bun, add a slice of grilled Halloumi, top with tomato, cucumber, arugula, and a dollop of yogurt sauce if using. Cover with the top half of the bun.

Enjoy your delicious Halloumi sliders with friends or family!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of za'atar or your favorite herbs over the grilled Halloumi.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to make sliders ahead of time, prepare the Halloumi and toppings in advance. Grilled Halloumi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just ensure it’s placed in an airtight container to maintain its texture. When ready to eat, reheat it in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side to regain its warmth and crispness, but be careful not to overcook it.

The toppings, especially vegetables, can also be prepped a day in advance. Storing sliced cucumber and tomatoes in separate containers will keep them fresh and crunchy. If using yogurt sauce, prepare that too, and keep it well-covered in the fridge. Then, when it’s time to assemble the sliders, you’ll have everything ready to go, making for a quick and efficient meal.

Variations to Explore

For a Mediterranean twist, consider integrating other ingredients that complement Halloumi beautifully. Try adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the sliders for an extra burst of flavor. You can also spice things up by marinating your Halloumi slices in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of herbs like oregano and thyme for an hour prior to grilling; this infuses them with robust Mediterranean flavors.

Additionally, think about changing up the type of bun you use. While slider buns are traditional, using pita bread or flatbreads can give a new twist to the slider experience, turning them into more of a handheld wrap. Experimenting with different types of cheese, like grilled feta or queso blanco, can also yield delightful results, allowing you to customize the taste profile to suit your mood or dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

You can try other grilling cheeses like Queso Blanco or Paneer, but Halloumi has a unique texture that holds up well when grilled.

→ Are these sliders suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Halloumi is a firm cheese that’s perfect for vegetarian diets.

→ Can I prepare the sliders in advance?

You can grill the Halloumi and prep the toppings in advance, but it's best to assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy.

→ What beverages pair well with these sliders?

These sliders go great with a light white wine, sparkling water, or a refreshing lemonade.