This recipe for a mouthwatering Halloumi Sandwich is a combination of flavors and textures that you are going to love!
About the Recipe
Each bite of this simple but delicious and hearty sandwich has a blend of seared salty halloumi cheese, flavorful pesto, juicy tomato, and peppery arugula tossed in a balsamic dijon dressing all on a toasted hoagie bun. What’s not to love?
This halloumi sandwich makes a satisfying lunch or dinner choice, is perfect for casual gatherings and great for serving to anyone who might be a vegetarian or adventurous foodie. The combination of flavors from the fresh ingredients and the addition of seared halloumi cheese is something that is both unique and delicious!
If you haven't bought halloumi before, look for it in the Greek cheese section in your local grocery store.
If you are looking for more sandwich recipes, check out our: Air Fried Chicken Sandwiches, The Best Grilled Chicken Sandwich or Bolognese Sandwich.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
Unique and delicious - Seared halloumi cheese is something that not everyone has had the opportunity to try. Putting it on this sandwich with the arugula, pesto and tomato compliments the savory richness of the cheese and makes this an irresistible and unique sandwich choice!
Simple - Making this sandwich is relatively easy and requires minimal time and effort. Searing the halloumi takes just a few minutes and assembling the sandwich is simple. This is a convenient option when you want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Versatile - This sandwich recipe offers a lot of room for customization. You can easily add or omit ingredients to make this sandwich suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for these halloumi sandwiches:
- Hoagies - Use hoagies, ciabatta rolls, or a kaiser roll.
- Olive oil - Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Halloumi
- Pesto
- Tomato
- Arugula
- Dijon mustard
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt & black pepper
Directions
Let's make this halloumi sandwich recipe together!
Step 1: Brush the hoagies with olive oil and toast in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Once they are golden brown in color, remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Add the halloumi slices to the pan. Sear both sides of the halloumi for 5 minutes, or until golden.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine the arugula, olive oil, dijon, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss well.
Step 4: To assemble the sandwiches, start by spreading pesto on the bottom of each bun. Top with arugula mixture, tomato and seared halloumi. Serve and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to make this ultimate halloumi sandwich:
Slice the halloumi - For best results, cut the halloumi into slices of consistent thickness for even cooking. This will help to ensure a golden crust on the outside and soft interior.
Cook in batches - If needed, sear the halloumi in batches. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan. You want to sear until warm and golden brown to avoid a rubbery texture.
Sear until golden brown - Be sure to sear until the halloumi slices develop a beautiful golden brown crust on both sides. This enhances the flavor and provides a satisfying texture for your sandwich.
Kitchen Equipment
Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this simple recipe. You can find all of these products on Amazon.
Large skillet - You'll want a high quality large skillet with enough room for the cheese to cook without touching. You can use a non-stick skillet or a cast iron pan in this recipe.
Halloumi - If you can't find halloumi cheese in stores, you can buy it on Amazon!
Pesto - You can always make pesto at home, but if you want a good quality store bought pesto, I love this brand!
Recipe Substitutions/Variations
Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this delicious sandwich.
Pesto - Try sundried tomato pesto or a zesty cilantro lime sauce in place of the basil pesto.
Arugula - Replace the arugula with baby spinach or watercress, if desired.
Additions - Try adding roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, avocado slices, sliced cucumber, spicy mayo, red onion, fresh basil leaves, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
What To Serve With
Here are some recipes to serve alongside this halloumi sandwich:
Greek Cucumber Salad - Packed with crisp mini cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese, this delightful salad is one you will want to make right away! There is a generous amount of fresh dill and lemon juice, bringing refreshing flavors to every bite.
Crispy Chickpeas with Couscous & Feta - These crispy chickpeas are an amazing snack and an easy addition to your weekly meal prep! I love incorporating them in a quick meal. This healthy and delicious dish comes together in 30 minutes or less.
Air Fryer Eggplant - This delicious recipe for Air Fryer Eggplant is a healthy and easy way to cook eggplant. With just a few simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder and onion powder, this eggplant cooks up perfectly crispy and tender in just a few short minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Halloumi cheese is a semi-hard brined cheese that has a distinctive taste. It is both salty and tangy and has a hearty texture that maintains its shape when grilled or fried thanks to a high melting point.
Searing the halloumi cheese gives it a crispy exterior while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. You do not have to sear the cheese, but it certainly gives this sandwich more texture and added flavor!
That is up to you! Both will provide delicious flavor to this sandwich. Store bought pesto is convenient and tastes great. Freshly made pesto is even better and simple to make!
Recipe Storage and Reheating
Here are storage and reheating instructions for this recipe. This is best served freshly made or within several hours of assembling.
Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container and eat leftovers within 4-5 days.
Freezer Storage: Freezing is not recommended.
Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat this recipe is to heat in a skillet with a little olive oil over low heat until warm. You can also reheat in the microwave.
Other Recipes to Try
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Halloumi Sandwich
Ingredients
- 4 hoagies or ciabatta rolls
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 7 oz packages Halloumi cheese
- 2 tablespoons pesto
- 1 tomato sliced
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Brush hoagies with olive oil. Heat a large pan over medium heat. Toast the bread until golden brown and set aside.
- Add halloumi to the pan. Sear for 5 minutes per side until golden.
- Combine arugula, extra virgin olive oil, dijon, balsamic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss well.
- Assemble sandwiches by spreading pesto on the bottom of each bun. Top with arugula, tomato, and seared halloumi. Serve and enjoy.
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