I’m a big fan of quick, satisfying meals that taste amazing without the guilt. This Keto Grilled Halloumi & Spinach Salad is one of those recipes that I love to prepare when I want something filling, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect balance of crispy grilled cheese and fresh greens, making it a great option for anyone following a keto diet or just looking for something delicious and low-carb.

The grilled halloumi cheese adds a savory, slightly smoky flavor, while the fresh spinach gives the salad a refreshing, light crunch. And the best part? It’s packed with nutrients and is super easy to whip up. So, let’s go right into it!

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Low-Carb: Perfect for a keto diet, with almost no carbs but full of flavor.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 15 minutes.
Packed with Flavor: The grilled halloumi and tangy dressing make each bite delicious.
Nutrient-Rich: Full of healthy fats, fiber, and protein to keep you energized.

Ingredients

For the salad:

200g halloumi cheese, sliced into thick pieces
4 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 avocado, sliced
1 small cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling the halloumi)

For the dressing:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the halloumi:
- Start by slicing the halloumi cheese into thick pieces (about 1/2 inch thick). This cheese doesn’t melt like other cheeses, so it’s perfect for grilling.
- Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on the pan to prevent sticking.
- Once the pan is hot, add the halloumi slices and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges. Be careful not to overcook it—halloumi can become too tough if left on the grill for too long.
Assemble the salad:
- While the halloumi is grilling, place the spinach leaves in a large salad bowl.
- Add the sliced avocado, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the bowl. These ingredients bring freshness and crunch, which balance perfectly with the crispy halloumi.
Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The mustard adds a little kick, and the balsamic vinegar brings a tangy sweetness that ties everything together.
Combine:
- Once the halloumi is grilled, place it on top of the salad. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently. Be careful not to break up the halloumi too much—it’s meant to stay in chunks to keep that delightful grilled texture.
Serve:
- Serve immediately! This salad is best enjoyed fresh, with the warm halloumi on top of the cool veggies.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is already a complete meal, but if you want to make it even heartier, you can add some grilled chicken breast or a few boiled eggs for extra protein. You can also serve it with a side of keto-friendly crackers or a small portion of nuts if you’re craving something crunchy.

Tips for the Best Keto Grilled Halloumi & Spinach Salad

Grilling Halloumi: Halloumi cheese is best when it’s grilled or pan-fried, so make sure you get it golden and crispy on the outside while still soft on the inside.
Customizing the Salad: Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers, olives, or radishes to customize the salad to your taste.
Dressing Variations: If you’re not a fan of balsamic vinegar, you can swap it out for lemon juice for a lighter, fresher dressing.
Make Ahead: The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, so you can have it ready for quick meals.

Why Halloumi is a Great Choice for Keto

Halloumi cheese is a keto-friendly choice because it’s low in carbs and high in protein. Unlike many cheeses that melt when cooked, halloumi holds its shape, making it perfect for grilling or frying. It’s also packed with healthy fats, which make it a great addition to any keto meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 340
Fat: 28g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 6g (Net carbs: 4g)
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g

Why This Salad is Perfect for Keto

When you’re on the keto diet, you want to avoid high-carb foods while focusing on healthy fats and proteins. This salad has it all: healthy fats from the olive oil and avocado, protein from the halloumi cheese, and fiber from the spinach. It’s a great way to stay on track with your keto goals while still enjoying a flavor-packed meal.

Conclusion

This Keto Grilled Halloumi & Spinach Salad is the kind of meal that you’ll look forward to every time you need something quick, satisfying, and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, dinner, or a side dish, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot. The grilled halloumi is the star of the show, and the combination of fresh veggies and the tangy dressing makes this salad a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Give it a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed. The best part? You don’t need to be a cooking expert to make it, and it’s so easy to throw together for a quick, healthy meal.

Enjoy your keto meal, and don’t forget to get creative with your salad add-ins next time. Whether you’re making this for yourself or impressing guests, this salad is sure to be a hit!