Grilled Summer Vegetable & Halloumi Skewers with Citrus Herb Marinade

• 8 oz halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
2. Add the halloumi cubes, red bell pepper pieces, zucchini rounds, yellow squash rounds, red onion wedges, and cherry tomatoes to the marinade. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Thread the marinated vegetables and halloumi alternately onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
5. Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning gently, until the vegetables are tender and charred in spots and halloumi has grill marks and is slightly softened.
6. Remove skewers from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Optionally, sprinkle with extra chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
7. Serve warm as a main vegetarian dish or as a vibrant side alongside grilled meats or rice dishes.
8. Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet.

Chef tips

• Halloumi cheese grills beautifully because it has a high melting point, but be careful not to overcook to avoid it becoming rubbery.
• If you don’t have halloumi, firm tofu marinated similarly can be used as a substitute for a vegan option.
• Use a grill basket or foil tray if you’re worried about cherry tomatoes or smaller vegetables falling through the grill grates.
• Make sure to soak wooden skewers prior to grilling to prevent burning and breaking.