Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers
When you’re following a keto diet, finding fun and flavorful appetizers or side dishes can sometimes feel limiting, but this Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers recipe changes the game. Halloumi cheese is a star ingredient here because it holds up to grilling perfectly—giving you that satisfying salty bite with a crisp, golden exterior. Paired with juicy, slightly charred cherry tomatoes, this dish makes for an irresistible keto-friendly treat. It’s simple, quick, and tastes absolutely amazing!
The first time I tried grilling halloumi, I was blown away by how well it held its shape on the grill. Unlike other cheeses that might melt into a mess, halloumi gets beautifully crispy on the outside while staying soft inside. When paired with the fresh and juicy pop of cherry tomatoes, you’ve got a winning combination that’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a light meal. Whether you're hosting a BBQ or just want something quick to whip up for dinner, these skewers will fit right in.
Why You’ll Love Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: This recipe is super low in carbs, making it a perfect keto option.
- Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for those busy days.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of salty halloumi and sweet grilled tomatoes makes for a mouthwatering bite.
- Perfect for Grilling: Halloumi cheese doesn’t melt on the grill, making it ideal for skewers and outdoor cooking.
Ingredients for Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers
You only need a few basic ingredients to make these skewers, and they come together beautifully with minimal effort. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Skewers:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 20-25)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Skewers made of wood or metal (if using wood, soak them in water for half an hour before grilling)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves, for serving
- Lemon wedges, for a fresh squeeze of citrus
Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
If you're using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. You can also use a stovetop grill pan if you prefer indoor grilling. To keep the grates from sticking, make sure they are clean and lightly greased.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
Cut your halloumi cheese into roughly 1-inch cubes. Take your cherry tomatoes and, if needed, give them a quick rinse and pat them dry.
Thread the halloumi cubes and cherry tomatoes onto your skewers, alternating between the two. Each skewer should have around 4-5 pieces of halloumi and 3-4 tomatoes.
Step 3: Season the Skewers
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Using a brush or your hands, generously coat the skewers with the seasoned olive oil mixture. Make sure each piece of halloumi and every tomato is well-coated to lock in flavor and prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning occasionally to ensure that all sides of the halloumi are nicely browned and the tomatoes have a slight char. Be careful not to overcook the halloumi, as it can become a little rubbery if left on the grill for too long.
Step 5: Serve
When the skewers are finished, place them on a dish for serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of color and flavor, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing squeeze over the top.
Macros Breakdown (Per Serving - 2 Skewers)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 15g
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Total Carbs: 4g
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g (from the tomatoes)
- Protein: 15g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Tips for Perfect Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers
- Don’t Overcook the Halloumi: Halloumi can become tough and rubbery if cooked for too long. Keep an eye on it and remove the skewers once it turns golden-brown and crisp.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Add Veggies: Want to add more to your skewers? Zucchini or bell peppers are great low-carb options that pair well with halloumi and tomatoes.
- Serve Immediately: Halloumi is best enjoyed hot off the grill. The texture is at its peak when it’s warm and slightly crispy, so dig in right away!
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano or thyme on hand, swap it for the dried oregano for an even more flavorful finish.
Common FAQs about Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the skewers ahead of time by threading the halloumi and tomatoes onto the skewers and storing them in the fridge. However, I recommend grilling them right before serving for the best texture.
Is Halloumi cheese keto-friendly?
Yes! Halloumi is a great cheese for a keto diet. It's high in fat and protein, with very few carbs, making it an ideal option for low-carb meals.
Can I substitute the tomatoes?
Absolutely. If you’re looking to lower the carb count further or just want to switch things up, you can replace the tomatoes with zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms.
What can I serve with these skewers?
These skewers are excellent as a side dish or appetiser. Pair them with a keto salad, grilled meats, or even a cauliflower rice pilaf for a full meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Any leftover skewers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, you can place them back on the grill or warm them in a skillet.
Conclusion
Keto Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers are a must-try for anyone on a low-carb diet. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and the perfect balance of salty and sweet. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a keto-friendly snack, or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers every time. The best part is that it requires just a few simple ingredients, but the result is anything but simple—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
If you loved this recipe and want to keep your keto meals exciting, here are five more keto-friendly recipes you should definitely try:
- Keto Zucchini Fritters – Crispy and savory fritters that make for a perfect snack or side dish.
- Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp – Juicy shrimp cooked in a garlicky butter sauce, ideal for dinner or meal prep.
- Keto Chicken Skewers with Avocado Dip – Grilled chicken skewers served with a creamy avocado dip for an easy, tasty meal.
- Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – A low-carb take on the classic comfort food, loaded with cheese and flavor.
- Keto Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms – Bite-sized appetizers that are both healthy and delicious.
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