Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad
This easy Keto Watermelon Salad is the perfect refreshing summer dish. After making it dozens of times, I’ve discovered the trick to keeping it crispy is to grill the halloumi just right. Jump to the recipe or keep reading for my best tips. If you love recipes like this, you’ll also enjoy Easy Banana Peanut Butter Oat Smoothie Bowl and Crispy Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich.
Why This Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad Is Pure Comfort
- Crispy grilled halloumi adds a savory twist to sweet watermelon
- Refreshing and light, perfect for hot summer days
- Easy to make and ready in just 20 minutes
- Better than takeout and low in carbs
What You'll Need for Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad
Choosing the right ingredients makes a big difference, but this recipe is forgiving enough to work with what you have.
- 1 small watermelon
- 8 oz halloumi cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
📝 Ingredient Notes
- Watermelon: Choose a seedless variety for easier prep.
🛒 Tools & Equipment I Recommend
- Grill — Gives halloumi those perfect char marks. → See on Amazon
- Cheese slicer — Makes thin, even slices of halloumi. → See on Amazon
How to Make Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad
- Prepare watermelon: Cut watermelon into 1-inch cubes. You should have about 4 cups.
- Grill halloumi: Slice halloumi into 1/4-inch slices. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy.
- Make dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine watermelon, grilled halloumi, and mint leaves. Pour dressing over top and toss to combine. Top with feta and pistachios if desired.
Cook's Tips for Perfect Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad
- Pro tip: Grilled halloumi can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Common mistake and fix: Don't overcook the halloumi or it will become rubbery. If it starts to curl, it's done.
- Pro tip: For a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the salad.
- Pro tip: To make this a meal, add some grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad.
Storing & Reheating Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad
Short-Term Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make-ahead tip: The halloumi can be grilled ahead of time, but the salad is best fresh.
Freezing Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad
Not recommended for this salad.
How to Reheat Without Drying It Out
Oven: Not applicable. Microwave: Not applicable.
Recipe Notes
- Chef tip: For a vegan version, substitute the halloumi with grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Best substitution: If you don't have halloumi, you can use feta or paneer instead.
- Make-ahead: The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Scaling: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for a crowd.
- Troubleshooting: If your watermelon is not sweet enough, add a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
Want to level up this recipe?
Mint herb scissors — Makes quick work of chopping fresh mint. → Check price on Amazon
Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 small watermelon
- 8 oz halloumi cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
Seasonings
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare watermelon: Cut watermelon into 1-inch cubes. You should have about 4 cups.
- Grill halloumi: Slice halloumi into 1/4-inch slices. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy.
- Make dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine watermelon, grilled halloumi, and mint leaves. Pour dressing over top and toss to combine. Top with feta and pistachios if desired.
Notes
- Chef tip: For a vegan version, substitute the halloumi with grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Best substitution: If you don't have halloumi, you can use feta or paneer instead.
- Make-ahead: The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Scaling: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for a crowd.
- Troubleshooting: If your watermelon is not sweet enough, add a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended for this salad.
- Oven reheat: Not applicable.
- Microwave reheat: Not applicable.
- Make ahead: The halloumi can be grilled ahead of time, but the salad is best fresh.
Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sat. Fat: 7g
Nutritional values are estimates only. Actual values may vary by brand and portion size.
Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad FAQs
Yes, the halloumi can be grilled ahead of time, but the salad is best fresh.
You likely overcooked it. Keep an eye on it and once it starts to curl, it's done.
No, the watermelon and halloumi don't freeze well.
Yes, you can grill the halloumi in the air fryer at 400°F for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Feta or paneer work well as substitutes.
A Warm Final Note
I can’t wait for you to try Easy Keto Grilled Halloumi and Watermelon Summer Salad and see how effortlessly it comes together. When you make it, pop back here and leave a rating or share how it turned out — I love hearing from you!
