How to cook halloumi: the ultimate guide

Halloumi is a traditional Cypriot cheese, typically made from a blend of sheep and goat's milk. Thanks to its high melting point, it's ideal for pan-frying, where it goes gorgeously golden brown on the outside while retaining a moreish, melty middle. The flavour is tangy, salty and savoury.

Halloumi has PDO (protected designation of origin) status, meaning only the cheese produced in Cyprus can be called halloumi.

As well as being a staple of Mediterranean dishes, halloumi is delicious in everything from tacos to wraps and kebabs, where its savoury flavour can stand up to bold spices and marinades.

What to make with halloumi?

An incredibly versatile cheese, halloumi is as good in fluffy wraps with salad as it is used to top curries and stews. Need inspiration for what to serve with halloumi? Check out our top ideas below:

• Burgers made with pan-fried halloumi 'steaks' and crunchy slaw.

• Halloumi salad, with fresh leaves, tomatoes and pan-fried halloumi.

• Halloumi fajitas with your favourite salsas and slaw.

• Combine with Mexican flavours in a halloumi burrito.

• Halloumi wraps with pan-fried halloumi and your favouite salads and toppings.

• Barbecue halloumi kebabs.

• Grated halloumi used as a moreish topping for nachos.

• Halloumi fries, dipped in tangy, sweet sauces.

How to fry halloumi

Heat a splash of oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Cut the halloumi into thick slices, then pan-fry for 2-3 minutes until golden, flip and cook for a further 1 minute or until golden brown on both sides.

How to grill halloumi

Cut your halloumi into thick slices, pop onto a lined grill tray and cook under the grill on medium heat for around 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

How to air fry halloumi

Coat in egg, flour and breadcrumbs – as in this air fryer hot honey halloumi schnitzel recipe – then air fry at 180°C for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden. Alternatively, cut into cubes or slices, then air fry at 180°C for 10 minutes, turning halfway, until browned.

How to oven cook halloumi

Try baking a whole block of halloumi – place on a sheet of foil then coat in a marinade made from harissa, honey and a drizzle of oil. Wrap up then bake for around 20 minutes – your halloumi will be gooey and irresistible.

More cooking inspiration from M&S Food

In the mood for more cheese? See our best cheese recipes with everything from nutty Parmesan to creamy burrata, plus tips to help you create the ultimate cheeseboard using our range of expertly sourced cheeses in the Foodhall. If you fancy more Mediterranean-inspired dishes, check out our guide to Greek food to help you bring summer holiday flavours home. Whether you're searching for recipe ideas to help you get out of that midweek cooking rut, or want some expert tips to feed the family, we're the home of delicious inspiration.