Name: Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon and Thyme
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz Halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 lemon (half juiced, half cut into wedges); 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2–3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion chunks

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These grilled halloumi skewers with lemon and thyme are a quick, flavorful dish I love making when I want something savory, herby, and satisfying. The salty, firm halloumi gets crispy on the grill while soaking up the brightness of lemon juice and the earthy touch of thyme. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired treat that’s always a hit at cookouts or as a light lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how simple and delicious these skewers are. Halloumi holds up wonderfully on the grill, developing a golden, crispy edge without melting. The marinade takes just minutes to whip up, and I can easily mix in vegetables to add color and flavor. Whether I’m serving these as a starter, a meatless main, or a party platter, they come together fast and impress every time.

ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
Lemon (half juiced, half cut into wedges for serving or skewering)
Fresh thyme leaves or dried thyme
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onion

directions

If I’m using wooden skewers, I soak them in water for 20 to 30 minutes to prevent burning.
I mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
I toss in the halloumi cubes (and veggies if using), making sure everything is coated well.
I thread the cheese and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating as I go.
I heat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
I cook the skewers for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until the cheese is golden and lightly charred.
I serve the skewers hot with extra lemon squeezed on top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

variations

I sometimes add chunks of zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for a more filling skewer.
I swap thyme for oregano, rosemary, or za’atar depending on the mood.
For a sweet and spicy twist, I drizzle a bit of honey over the grilled skewers and sprinkle on red chili flakes.
If I’m short on time, I skip the marinade and just brush the skewers with seasoned olive oil right before grilling.
I’ve even used metal skewers or fresh rosemary sprigs as skewers for extra flavor and flair.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them back on a hot grill or into a skillet for a few minutes until warmed through. The texture holds up pretty well, and they taste just as great the next day.

FAQs

Can I prep these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, I like to assemble them a few hours in advance and refrigerate them until I’m ready to grill.

Can I use a stovetop grill pan instead?

Definitely. I use a grill pan over medium-high heat and they turn out just as tasty.

Do I need to soak the wooden skewers?

I always soak them for about 20–30 minutes so they don’t burn or splinter while grilling.

Can I freeze leftover halloumi skewers?

I don’t recommend freezing them since the texture of halloumi changes in the freezer and becomes rubbery.

How long should I grill the skewers?

I usually grill them for about 3–4 minutes per side until they’re nicely charred and golden.

Conclusion

These grilled halloumi skewers with lemon and thyme are one of those recipes I come back to over and over. They’re quick, flavorful, and adaptable to whatever vegetables or herbs I have on hand. Whether I’m grilling outdoors or indoors on a pan, they always turn out delicious and satisfying.

Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Lemon and Thyme

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Grill
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Mediterranean-inspired grilled halloumi skewers are bright, savory, and perfect for a quick appetizer or light meal. Lemon juice adds a tangy zing, while thyme brings aromatic depth to the charred cheese.

Ingredients

8 oz Halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 lemon (half juiced, half cut into wedges)
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried thyme
2 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion chunks

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Instructions

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add halloumi and optional veggies to the bowl and toss gently to coat. Let marinate briefly.
Thread halloumi and veggies onto skewers, alternating as desired.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill skewers for about 3–4 minutes per side until the halloumi is golden and slightly crisp.
Transfer to a plate and squeeze fresh lemon juice over before serving.

Notes

Use metal skewers or rosemary sprigs for added aroma and sustainability.
For a twist, try oregano or za’atar instead of thyme.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat on grill or under broiler.
Don’t freeze grilled halloumi as it alters the texture.