Pistachio-Crusted Halloumi with Honey and Thyme Recipe
Introduction
Pistachio-crusted halloumi is a delightful combination of salty cheese and crunchy nuts, enhanced by sweet honey and fragrant thyme. This simple yet elegant dish makes a perfect appetizer or a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat the halloumi slices dry with a paper towel and season them lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Step 2: Dredge each halloumi slice first in the flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat evenly with the chopped pistachios, pressing gently to help them stick.
- Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the pistachio-coated halloumi slices for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Step 4: Transfer the cooked halloumi to a serving plate. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the chopped pistachios lightly before coating the halloumi.
- Try substituting thyme with fresh rosemary or basil for a different aromatic touch.
- If you prefer a vegan option, use a firm tofu and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Serve with a fresh salad or crusty bread to balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage
Store any leftover halloumi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the crust’s crispiness. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be served at room temperature as well.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Yes, almonds, walnuts, or pecans can be used as alternatives. Choose nuts that you enjoy and chop them finely for a similar texture.
Is halloumi suitable for grilling instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely. You can grill the coated halloumi slices for a smoky flavor and crispy crust, but watch carefully to avoid burning the pistachios.
PrintPistachio-Crusted Halloumi with Honey and Thyme Recipe
This Pistachio-Crusted Halloumi with Honey and Thyme recipe features crispy, golden halloumi cheese slices coated in a crunchy pistachio crust, perfectly enhanced by a drizzle of sweet honey and fragrant fresh thyme. It’s a delightful appetizer or snack combining savory, nutty, and sweet flavors with a satisfying texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Pat the halloumi slices dry using a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then lightly season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Coat the Halloumi: Dredge each halloumi slice in all-purpose flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Next, dip the floured slices into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press each slice into the finely chopped pistachios, ensuring an even crust forms and adheres firmly.
- Cook the Halloumi: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the coated halloumi slices in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they become golden brown and the crust is crispy.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked halloumi to a serving plate. Immediately drizzle with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top. Serve warm to best enjoy the contrast between the crispy crust and creamy cheese.
Notes
- Patting the halloumi dry is essential to ensure the crust sticks well and the cheese browns properly.
- You can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different flavor.
- Use fresh thyme for the best aroma, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch.
- Serve immediately after cooking as halloumi is best enjoyed warm and crispy.
Keywords: pistachio crusted halloumi, halloumi recipe, fried halloumi, pistachio cheese, Mediterranean appetizer, honey and thyme halloumi
