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Day 1 Lunch: Grilled Halloumi Cheese Over Arugula + Olive Oil & Lemon

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Cook Time:

5 minutes

Serves:

1

Level:

Beginner

About the Recipe

A savory, protein-rich lunch featuring crispy, golden-brown halloumi cheese slices served over peppery arugula and finished with a light drizzle of olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Grilled Halloumi:

  • 4 oz halloumi cheese, sliced ¼-inch thick

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying)


Arugula Salad:

  • 1½ cups fresh arugula, washed and dried

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • Juice from ½ fresh lemon

  • Sea salt, to taste

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)

Preparation

Grilled Halloumi:

  1. Preheat Pan or Grill:Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly brush halloumi slices with olive oil on both sides.

  2. Grill Halloumi:Place halloumi slices in the skillet and grill for 1-2 minutes per side until golden-brown and slightly crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.


Arugula Salad:

  1. Prepare Salad: Arrange arugula on a serving plate. Drizzle olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.

  2. Add Halloumi: Place grilled halloumi slices over the arugula. Season lightly with sea salt and optional black pepper.


Tips to Make it Even Easier:

  • Pre-Sliced Halloumi: Buy pre-sliced halloumi to save prep time. Halloumi holds its shape well when grilled, so minimal effort is required.

  • Batch Grill for Later: Grill extra halloumi and store in an airtight container. It reheats easily in a skillet or oven, or you can enjoy it cold.

  • Pre-Washed Arugula: Use pre-washed arugula to eliminate the need for rinsing and drying.


Simple Flavor Boost Options (Optional):

  • Garlic & Herb Olive Oil Drizzle: Infuse olive oil with minced garlic, fresh oregano, and thyme for extra depth of flavor..

  • Chili Flakes & Mint: Sprinkle red chili flakes and fresh chopped mint over halloumi for a bold, fresh contrast.

  • Lemon Zest & Capers: Grate fresh lemon zest over the dish and scatter a few capers for a tangy bite.

  • Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Add roasted or blistered cherry tomatoes for a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with halloumi.

  • Pesto Drizzle (Nut-Free): Drizzle with a sugar-free, nut-free basil pesto for an herby, aromatic twist.


Recipes Created by BloodSugarChef.com

Meal Plan by American Diabetes Society

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