Halloumi Saganaki

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Total time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Country of Origin: Cyprus

Description

Pan-seared Cypriot halloumi cheese featuring a crispy golden crust on the outside and a warm, squeaky, savory center, drizzled with honey and sesame seeds.

Presentation & How It's Eaten

Served piping hot right out of the pan with fresh lemon wedges, warm pita bread, and fresh mint leaves.

Ingredients

• 10 oz block Cypriot Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch slabs

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Dredge Cheese: Dip halloumi slices briefly in cold water, then dredge in flour to coat lightly, shaking off excess.

2. Heat Pan: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet or small cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.

3. Sear: Place halloumi slices in hot pan and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

4. Drizzle & Garnish: Remove from heat, place on warm platter, drizzle immediately with honey, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds.

5. Serve: Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges squeezed over the top and fresh mint leaves.

Optional

• Flambé: Splash 1 tbsp of Ouzo or Brandy into the pan and ignite briefly before serving for dramatic flair.

Cooking Tips

• Wet Dredge: Lightly dampening cheese before flouring helps flour stick better, creating a crispier crust.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~310 kcal

• Total Fat: 20g

• Saturated Fat: 11g

• Cholesterol: 50mg

• Sodium: 710mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 18g

• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g

• Sugars: 10g

• Protein: 15g