Juicy grilled watermelon slices and salty halloumi cheese meet in this vibrant summer salad, elevated with sliced green chili, fresh mint, and a drizzle of lime juice. A smoky, spicy, and refreshing dish that hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a celebration of bold contrasts—sweet watermelon, savory halloumi, spicy chili, and cooling mint all come together in perfect harmony. Grilling the watermelon intensifies its flavor while adding a subtle smokiness, and the seared halloumi brings a rich, salty bite. It’s quick to prepare, visually striking, and makes an excellent side or light main dish for warm-weather dining. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a unique salad to accompany grilled meats, this dish delivers freshness and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Watermelon slices, cut into triangles
• Halloumi cheese, sliced
• Olive oil
• Fresh green chili (jalapeño or serrano), thinly sliced
• Juice of lime
• Zest of lime
• Fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: chili flakes or sumac for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Lightly brush both sides of the watermelon and halloumi slices with olive oil.
3. Grill the watermelon for 1–2 minutes per side, just until grill marks appear and the edges begin to caramelize.
4. Grill the halloumi slices for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
5. Arrange the grilled watermelon and halloumi on a serving platter.
6. Sprinkle with thinly sliced chili, chopped mint, and lime zest.
7. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and black pepper.
8. Garnish with chili flakes or sumac if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 3 people as a side dish or light appetizer.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5–6 minutes
Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Add Greens: Serve the salad over a bed of arugula or baby spinach for extra volume.
• Citrus Twist: Swap lime for lemon juice and zest for a slightly different acidity.
• Fruit Swap: Use grilled peaches or pineapple in place of watermelon.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or pistachios for added texture.
• Vegan Alternative: Substitute halloumi with a vegan grilling cheese or firm tofu seasoned with salt.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and warm from the grill.
If you must store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Note that the texture of grilled watermelon may change after chilling, and reheating is not recommended as the halloumi can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but grilling and assembling should be done just before serving for best results.

What kind of watermelon should I use?

Seedless varieties are best for convenience, but any ripe watermelon will work well.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes, paneer or a firm feta block can be used as substitutes, though the flavor and texture will vary.

Do I need to peel the watermelon?

No, the rind helps the slices stay intact while grilling and adds visual appeal, but you can remove it before serving if preferred.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of heat depends on the chili used. Jalapeños offer mild heat, while serranos or chili flakes add more intensity.

Can I grill the halloumi without oil?

Lightly brushing the cheese with oil prevents sticking and helps achieve even browning, so it’s recommended.

How do I keep halloumi from becoming rubbery?

Serve it soon after grilling while it’s still warm and soft—halloumi tends to firm up as it cools.

What herbs can I use instead of mint?

Fresh basil, cilantro, or dill would all complement the flavors nicely.

Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

Absolutely. A stovetop grill pan works perfectly for this recipe.

What should I serve this salad with?

It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or other Mediterranean dishes like couscous or tabbouleh.

Conclusion

Grilled Watermelon and Halloumi Salad with Chili & Mint is a modern, flavor-forward dish that showcases how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable culinary experience. It’s refreshing yet savory, quick to make, and full of contrasting textures that will delight your palate. Perfect as a light appetizer or a vibrant side dish, this salad is sure to impress at any summer table.

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