A Crispy, Sweet, and Savory Delight
Imagine biting into a golden, crispy piece of halloumi cheese, warm and slightly chewy on the inside, with a drizzle of sweet, golden honey enhancing its rich, salty flavor. This Easy Air Fryer Halloumi with Honey is the perfect combination of crunch, creaminess, and sweetness, making it an irresistible snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Using an air fryer ensures that your halloumi gets that perfect crispiness without needing excess oil, making this a healthier yet indulgent option. Whether you’re serving it as a starter, adding it to a salad, or enjoying it on its own, this dish will quickly become one of your favorites.
Let’s dive into this quick and easy halloumi recipe that’s packed with flavor and ready in just 10 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes.
✔️ Perfectly Crispy – Achieve that golden brown crunch without deep frying.
✔️ Salty & Sweet – The balance of savory halloumi and sweet honey is irresistible.
✔️ Healthier Alternative – Uses less oil while maintaining great texture.
✔️ Versatile – Enjoy as a snack, side dish, or salad topper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Halloumi cheese (sliced into ½-inch pieces) | 8 ounces (225g) |
| Olive oil or avocado oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Lemon zest (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
Essential Kitchen Tools
To make this Air Fryer Halloumi with Honey, you’ll need:
- Air fryer – Any model works, but basket-style ensures even crisping.
- Sharp knife – For slicing halloumi evenly.
- Mixing bowl – To coat halloumi with oil.
- Tongs – For flipping the cheese in the air fryer.
- Small saucepan (optional) – To warm and infuse honey with herbs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Air Fryer Halloumi with Honey
1. Prep the Halloumi
- Remove halloumi cheese from packaging and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Slice into ½-inch thick strips or cubes.
2. Coat with Oil
- In a mixing bowl, drizzle halloumi slices with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
3. Air Fry the Halloumi
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes.
- Arrange the halloumi slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drizzle with Honey
- While the halloumi is cooking, warm the honey in a small saucepan for 30 seconds (optional).
- Drizzle honey over the crispy halloumi as soon as it comes out of the air fryer.
5. Add Garnishes & Serve
- Sprinkle with black pepper, fresh thyme, or lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm and crispy!
The Secret to Crispy Halloumi in the Air Fryer
✔️ Use high heat – Cooking at 375-400°F ensures the crispiest texture.
✔️ Pat the halloumi dry – Removes excess moisture for better browning.
✔️ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Allows air to circulate for even cooking.
Best Types of Honey to Use
| Honey Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Clover Honey | Light and mild |
| Manuka Honey | Rich and slightly earthy |
| Wildflower Honey | Floral and complex |
| Orange Blossom Honey | Citrusy and sweet |
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
| Ingredient | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Halloumi | Paneer or queso fresco |
| Olive oil | Avocado oil or melted butter |
| Honey | Maple syrup or agave nectar |
| Black pepper | Red pepper flakes for spice |
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating in Air Fryer: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
- Reheating in Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
Best Side Dishes and Pairings
🥗 Greek Salad – Pairs perfectly with halloumi.
🍞 Pita Bread or Flatbread – Great for dipping.
🍇 Roasted Grapes or Figs – A sweet and tangy contrast.
Health Benefits of Halloumi and Honey
✔️ High in Protein – Supports muscle growth.
✔️ Rich in Calcium – Good for bone health.
✔️ Natural Antioxidants – Honey provides immune-boosting benefits.
Nutritional Information Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 15g |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use low-fat halloumi?
Yes, but it may not crisp as well.
2. What if my halloumi is too salty?
Soak in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking.
3. Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes! Pan-fry the halloumi in a non-stick skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Now that you know how to make Easy Air Fryer Halloumi with Honey, it’s time to give it a try! This crispy, salty, and sweet dish is perfect for any occasion.
Easy Air Fryer Halloumi with Honey – A Deliciously Crispy Treat!
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Crispy on the outside, warm and chewy on the inside—this Easy Air Fryer Halloumi with Honey is an absolute delight! With its perfect balance of salty halloumi, golden honey, and fragrant herbs, this dish makes a fantastic appetizer, snack, or side. The air fryer gives the cheese a beautiful crispy texture while keeping it soft and rich inside, all with minimal oil. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh herbs for an irresistible bite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces halloumi cheese, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Halloumi
- Remove the halloumi cheese from its packaging and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Slice into ½-inch thick strips or cubes.
2️⃣ Coat with Oil
- In a mixing bowl, drizzle olive oil over the halloumi slices and toss to coat evenly.
3️⃣ Air Fry the Halloumi
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes.
- Arrange the halloumi slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4️⃣ Drizzle with Honey
- While the halloumi is cooking, warm the honey in a small saucepan for 30 seconds (optional).
- Drizzle the honey over the crispy halloumi as soon as it comes out of the air fryer.
5️⃣ Add Garnishes & Serve
- Sprinkle with black pepper, fresh thyme, or lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm and crispy!
Notes
✔️ Use high heat – Cooking at 375-400°F ensures the crispiest texture.
✔️ Pat the halloumi dry – Removes excess moisture for better browning.
✔️ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – This allows air to circulate and ensures even cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
