Sliders with Halloumi

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I fell in love with halloumi cheese during a summer trip and discovered the joy of incorporating it into sliders. These sliders are a delightful blend of crispy halloumi, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sauce, all nestled in soft buns. Every bite bursts with flavor, making them perfect for a casual get-together or weeknight dinner. The balance of textures and tastes keeps me coming back for more, and I think you'll love them just as much as I do!

Josie Lambert

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:31:19.568Z

I remember the first time I grilled halloumi for a BBQ; the satisfying sizzle and the enticing aroma were enough to whet my appetite. The cheese becomes crispy on the outside while remaining creamy on the inside, a perfect combination that adds depth to these sliders. Using fresh vegetables and a homemade sauce elevates the flavors, bringing everything together beautifully.

To make the best sliders, I recommend serving them immediately after cooking. Halloumi can lose its texture if it sits too long, so have your ingredients ready for quick assembly. Experiment with different toppings like pickled red onions or a spicy aioli for a twist that suits your taste!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Crispy, golden-brown halloumi that crunches with each bite
  • Fresh veggies that provide a burst of flavor and color
  • Quick and easy to make for any meal or event

Choosing the Right Halloumi

When selecting halloumi cheese for your sliders, look for a brand that has a firm texture and a fresh, slightly salty flavor. The quality of halloumi can vary, so it's worth investing in artisanal options when available. Avoid halloumi that feels overly soft or has a dull appearance; it won't cook as well and may not achieve that perfect crispy exterior. For those new to halloumi, consider trying a small piece unseasoned first to understand its distinctive flavor profile.

If you're exploring alternatives to traditional halloumi, consider using grilled or pan-fried feta. While it won't replicate the exact texture, it can provide a similar salty kick and creaminess. Additionally, for a vegan option, look for plant-based cheeses designed for grilling. Just ensure they have a sturdy consistency and can withstand high heat without melting away.

Assembly Tips for Perfect Sliders

Assembling your sliders correctly is crucial for both presentation and taste. Start with toasted slider buns, as this will add extra texture and help prevent sogginess from the sauce and veggies. Toast each half in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes until they are just golden and slightly crispy. This step enhances the flavor and gives a satisfying crunch with each bite.

When layering your sliders, distribute the arugula evenly on the bottom bun before adding the halloumi. This helps to stabilize the contents and allows the warm halloumi to wilt the arugula slightly, enhancing its flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced pickles or roasted red peppers. These ingredients not only complement the cheese but also introduce a tangy contrast that elevates the overall experience.

Ingredients

For these delightful sliders, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sliders

  • 200g halloumi cheese, sliced
  • 4 slider buns
  • 1 cup arugula or lettuce
  • 1 tomato, sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from creating these delicious sliders.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your sliders:

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Cook the Halloumi

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add sliced halloumi and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Cut the slider buns in half. On the bottom half, layer arugula, halloumi slices, tomato, and cucumber. Spread a generous amount of the sauce over the top bun, then place it on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders immediately with your favorite side dish, and enjoy the crispy and creamy flavors!

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, so gather your loved ones and dig in!

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Pro Tips

  • For added flavor, try grilling the slider buns lightly before assembling them. This will give them a delightful crunch!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These sliders can be partially prepared in advance, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining. You can pre-slice the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead of time; just give it a good stir before using as the flavors meld beautifully in the fridge.

If you have leftover halloumi, it can be kept in the fridge for about a week. Just ensure it's wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out. To reheat, quickly pan-fry the cheese on medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side to restore that delightful crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. I recommend serving them with crispy sweet potato fries or a light quinoa salad to balance the richness of the halloumi. You could also prepare a simple coleslaw to add crunch and a tangy contrast, further enhancing the meal's flavor profile.

For a fun twist, try serving the sliders as a part of a slider platter. Include different sauces like spicy mayo or pesto for dipping, and offer a few toppings for personalization—think sliced jalapeños, avocado, or feta. This not only makes for a more interactive dining experience but also allows guests to tailor their sliders to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders vegan?

Yes! You can substitute halloumi with grilled tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative.

→ How can I store leftover sliders?

It’s best to store the components separately to maintain freshness. Store halloumi and veggies in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

Fries, potato wedges, or a side salad complement these sliders wonderfully!

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Sliders with Halloumi

I fell in love with halloumi cheese during a summer trip and discovered the joy of incorporating it into sliders. These sliders are a delightful blend of crispy halloumi, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sauce, all nestled in soft buns. Every bite bursts with flavor, making them perfect for a casual get-together or weeknight dinner. The balance of textures and tastes keeps me coming back for more, and I think you'll love them just as much as I do!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Josie Lambert

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 sliders

What You'll Need

For the Sliders

  1. 200g halloumi cheese, sliced
  2. 4 slider buns
  3. 1 cup arugula or lettuce
  4. 1 tomato, sliced
  5. 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  6. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  7. Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

  1. 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  2. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  3. 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
  4. Salt and pepper, to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add sliced halloumi and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Step 03

Cut the slider buns in half. On the bottom half, layer arugula, halloumi slices, tomato, and cucumber. Spread a generous amount of the sauce over the top bun, then place it on top.

Step 04

Serve the sliders immediately with your favorite side dish, and enjoy the crispy and creamy flavors!

Extra Tips

  1. For added flavor, try grilling the slider buns lightly before assembling them. This will give them a delightful crunch!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 14g