Halloumi with Olives and Thyme

By cindygwest

Halloumi has a firm, squeaky texture and high melting point and tastes like a mild feta cheese. If you can’t find it, look for queso blanco, “grilling cheese,” or bread cheese instead.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more
• 1 8.8-ounce package Halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup oil-cured black olives, pitted

Details

Adapted from bonappetit.com

Preparation

Step 1

Heat a medium skillet, preferably cast iron or nonstick, over medium. Add 1 Tbsp. oil and swirl to coat pan. Add Halloumi and cook undisturbed until cheese is deep golden brown, about 2 minutes. Using a thin flexible spatula, release cheese from skillet and toss. Cook, tossing occasionally, until a few more sides are golden brown, about 5 minutes (don’t worry about getting all sides browned). 

Remove skillet from heat and toss in thyme and red pepper flakes. Divide Halloumi mixture and olives among small plates and drizzle with more oil.