This is the best halloumi sandwich: perfectly pan-fried halloumi paired with roasted red peppers, peppery arugula, ripe tomato and red onion, all tucked into soft mini naan rounds and finished with cool tzatziki.
If you haven’t tried halloumi yet, you’re in for a delicious surprise. This brined, semi-firm cheese from Cyprus has a salty, savory flavor and a high melting point, so it grills or fries to a golden, crispy exterior while holding its shape. For cheese lovers, it’s a true treat.
This sandwich showcases halloumi at its best. The combination of salty, sweet and tangy flavors plus a variety of textures — crispy cheese, soft bread, crunchy onion and juicy tomato — makes it a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
What is halloumi?
Halloumi is a semi-firm, brined cheese traditionally from Cyprus. Its distinctive property is a high melting point, which means it browns and crisps when fried or grilled instead of melting into a puddle. You’ll usually find it in the deli or specialty cheese section of the supermarket.
How to make the best halloumi sandwich
The classic halloumi sandwich is simple: fried halloumi with tomato and onion. Here I add roasted red pepper for sweetness and tzatziki for creaminess and tang. Mini naan rounds make a light, tender vessel, but soft rolls, flatbreads or pita work well too.
Start by prepping the halloumi. Because it’s sold in brine, the slices will be slightly wet. Slice the cheese about 1/3 inch thick and pat the pieces dry with paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps the cheese develop a crisp, golden crust.
Heat a large skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Brush both sides of each halloumi slice lightly with olive oil. Place the slices in the pan and cook 3–4 minutes per side, or until each side turns a deep golden brown and develops a crisp edge. Avoid very high heat so the cheese browns evenly without burning.
To assemble, layer a handful of arugula onto the naan, add the fried halloumi, then the roasted red pepper, tomato slices and red onion. Spread tzatziki on the top piece of naan and close the sandwich. Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and crisp.
Dietary Considerations and Accommodations
This halloumi sandwich is naturally vegetarian. To reduce carbs, swap the naan for a lettuce wrap or a low-carb flatbread. Tzatziki can be made with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
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More recipes you’ll love!
If you enjoy this halloumi sandwich, try other tasty sandwich ideas such as roasted vegetable sandwiches, avocado tuna salad sandwiches or a vegetarian Philly-style cheesesteak.
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Print Recipe
Halloumi Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 10 ounces halloumi cheese
- 4 mini naan rounds (or other flat bread)
- 4 slices tomato
- 2 handfuls arugula
- 2 slices red onion
- 2 roasted red peppers
- 4 Tablespoons tzatziki sauce
Instructions
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Heat a large skillet to just below medium heat.
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Remove the halloumi from its package and slice into 1/3″ slices.
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Pat excess moisture from the halloumi slices with paper towel.
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Place the halloumi slices in the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crisp.
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Assemble sandwiches with arugula, roasted red pepper, fried halloumi, tomato and red onion on the naan rounds.
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Spread tzatziki on top and enjoy.
Nutrition
*Nutritional information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.