Grilled Veggie and Halloumi Skewers with Smoky Paprika 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 half-moons
• 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
• 12 cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, sea salt, and fresh lemon juice to create the smoky paprika marinade.
2. Add the halloumi cubes to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Set aside for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables: cut the bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion into pieces suitable for threading on skewers, and wash the cherry tomatoes.
4. Thread the marinated halloumi and vegetables alternately onto the skewers, starting and ending with a vegetable piece for balance.
5. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even grilling and achieve nice char marks.
7. The halloumi should be golden and slightly crispy on the outside while the vegetables become tender but still retain some bite.
8. Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon.

Chef tips

• If you don’t have halloumi, try using firm tofu; press well to remove excess moisture and marinate longer for flavor.
• Avoid overcooking halloumi, as it can become rubbery. Grill just until golden brown.
• Use metal skewers if possible, as they transfer heat and help the halloumi cook evenly inside.
• For added zest, sprinkle chopped fresh mint or drizzle a light yogurt-based sauce on top before serving.