Crispy Halloumi Bites with Watermelon Basil Salsa - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Crispy Halloumi Bites with Watermelon Basil Salsa

Ready to wow your taste buds? These Crispy Halloumi Bites are golden, salty perfection, paired with a refreshing Watermelon Basil Salsa that screams summer! It’s the snack you didn’t know you needed, and trust me, this combo is a game-changer. Let’s get cooking!

5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Have you ever had a snack so perfect it made you do a little happy dance in your kitchen? Well, get ready, because these Crispy Halloumi Bites with Watermelon Basil Salsa are exactly that kind of magic! Picture it: golden, perfectly crispy halloumi paired with a juicy, refreshing salsa that’s bursting with the sweet crunch of watermelon, the peppery pop of fresh basil, and a tangy twist of lime. Oh, summer might be waving goodbye, but this dish is here to keep those sunny vibes alive all year long. It’s the kind of appetizer that’ll make you feel like the fanciest host or the most indulgent snacker–your pick!

Crispy Halloumi Bites With Watermelon Basil Salsa Recipe

Now, let me tell you what makes this recipe shine brighter than a vacation day in Santorini. Halloumi, with its salty, squeaky charm, takes on a whole new personality when it’s fried to golden perfection. Its buttery crust against those soft insides? Oh, it’s a texture triumph! Add in the watermelon salsa and suddenly we’re playing in the big leagues of contrast. Sweet, salty, tangy, herby—it’s a full-on flavor party and everyone’s invited. But the real MVP here is the unexpected addition of chopped jalapeños in the salsa. They bring just the right kick to balance the sweetness and tie this whole dish together in a way that’ll leave you swooning.

Here’s a little chef-to-friend tip: don’t skimp on properly drying your halloumi before frying. A good pat with paper towels ensures you’ll get that glorious crispy exterior without any splattering drama. And for the salsa, dice your watermelon nice and small—it’s all about getting the perfect bite every time. Oh, and don’t toss the salsa together too early! Letting it sit for more than 10 minutes might give you a pool of watermelon juice instead of that fresh, chunky goodness. You’ve got this, snack star.

If you’re not already running to raid your fridge, let me give you that final nudge. These Crispy Halloumi Bites are ideal as a fancy appetizer, a fun party snack, or even just a "treat yourself" kind of meal. Want to mix it up? Try swapping the watermelon with juicy cantaloupe or mint instead of basil for a fresh twist—it’s your canvas to play with! So what are you waiting for? Dust off your skillet, grab your ingredients, and get ready to whip up a dish that’s as delicious as it is unforgettable. Your taste buds will thank you!

Keywords: crispy halloumi bites recipe, easy summer appetizer ideas, watermelon basil salsa recipe, unique party snack ideas, homemade halloumi appetizers, fried halloumi with salsa, refreshing summer snacks recipes

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups diced watermelon
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a small bowl, mix the flour, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.

  2. 2

    Coat each cube of halloumi cheese in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.

  3. 3

    Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

  4. 4

    Add the coated halloumi cubes to the skillet and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove and set on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

  5. 5

    To prepare the watermelon basil salsa, combine the diced watermelon, fresh basil, red chili (if using), lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Toss gently to mix.

  6. 6

    Serve the crispy halloumi bites warm with the watermelon basil salsa on the side or on top.

Nutrition Information

Calories

280 calories

Protein

12g

Carbs

17g

Fat

18g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute halloumi with another type of cheese?

A: Halloumi is unique because of its high melting point, allowing it to retain its shape when fried. However, you can substitute it with paneer or queso fresco for a similar texture, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Q: What can I use instead of all-purpose flour for coating the halloumi?

A: You can use rice flour, cornstarch, or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make the recipe gluten-free or for a slightly different crunch.

Q: How do I store leftovers, and can they be reheated?

A: Store leftover halloumi bites and watermelon basil salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the halloumi bites in a skillet over medium heat or in an air fryer to restore crispiness, but the salsa is best served fresh.

Q: Can I make the watermelon basil salsa ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the salsa up to 2 hours in advance. However, because watermelon releases juice over time, serve it promptly to maintain the freshness and prevent it from becoming too watery. Drain excess liquid if necessary before serving.

Q: What should I do if the halloumi starts sticking to the skillet?

A: Ensure the skillet and oil are adequately heated before adding the halloumi. Use a non-stick skillet, and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow enough space for flipping the cubes easily. If sticking occurs, gently loosen the bites with a spatula.

Q: Can I adjust the spice level in the recipe?

A: Absolutely! You can increase or omit the red chili in the salsa depending on your preference. Alternatively, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for spicier halloumi bites.

Q: What are some serving suggestions for this recipe?

A: These crispy halloumi bites pair wonderfully with fresh pita bread or a side of arugula salad. You can also skewer the halloumi bites with watermelon cubes for a fun appetizer or serve them as a topping on a summery grain bowl.

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