Salads should never be boring, and this Salad with Strawberries and Sweet and Spicy Halloumi is proof that fresh ingredients can create magic on a plate. With the salty richness of fried Halloumi, the natural sweetness of strawberries, and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes, this salad delivers a beautiful mix of flavors and textures.

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Why You’ll Love This Salad with Strawberries and Sweet and Spicy Halloumi

Sweet, savory, and spicy – a balance of flavors that makes every bite exciting.
Quick and easy – ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Nutritious and satisfying – packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Perfect for any occasion – enjoy it as a light meal, a side dish, or an impressive starter for guests.

Ingredient Spotlight

Halloumi Cheese: a firm, brined cheese with a high melting point, perfect for pan-frying to get that golden crust while staying chewy inside.
Strawberries: naturally sweet and juicy, they add a refreshing contrast to the savory cheese.
Arugula: its peppery bite complements the sweet and salty elements of the salad.
Feta Cheese: adds creaminess and enhances the salty richness of the Halloumi.
Pine Nuts: toasted for extra crunch and nutty depth.
Honey & Red Pepper Flakes: the honey caramelizes slightly on the fried Halloumi, creating a gorgeous balance of sweetness and spice.

How to Make It

Prepare the Halloumi: heat a small pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Fry the Halloumi pieces until they are golden brown on all sides, about 1-2 minutes per side. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute to coat the cheese in the sweet and spicy glaze.
Assemble the Salad: on a plate, arrange the arugula leaves as the base. Scatter the sliced strawberries and crumbled Feta cheese over the greens.
Top It Off: place the warm, caramelized Halloumi pieces on top of the salad.
Finishing Touches: sprinkle toasted pine nuts for crunch and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Serve Immediately: enjoy the salad while the Halloumi is warm and slightly crisp on the outside.

Pro Tips & Variations

Add a Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze enhances the sweetness of the strawberries and honey.
Swap the Greens: Try baby spinach or mixed greens if you’re not a fan of arugula.
Boost the Protein: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Make It Nut-Free: Substitute pine nuts with sunflower seeds or leave them out altogether.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of rosé or a citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Serve it alongside grilled meats, a light pasta dish, or as part of a brunch spread with crusty bread and dips.