Fried Halloumi and Cherry Salad with Lemon Honey Dressing Recipe
Bring on cherry season! Fresh juicy cherries are the perfect pop of sweet to pair with tangy, savory fried halloumi with crunchy multigrain croutons and sweet lemon honey dressing.
How to Make the Best Fried Halloumi and Cherry Salad with Lemon Honey Dressing
Fried halloumi is a game-changer for salads, bringing a delightful contrast of crispy exterior and creamy interior to fresh greens. In this fried halloumi and cherry salad, this versatile cheese is the star alongside juicy cherries and a bright lemon honey dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
The magic of this salad lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The tender kale and spinach base provides earthiness, while the fried halloumi adds a satisfying richness and slight saltiness. Fresh cherries bring natural sweetness, and multigrain croutons add a welcome crunch. The lemon honey dressing—with its perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and herbaceous notes—brings everything into harmony.
Cherry season is the ideal time to make this dish, but the combination of ingredients is so well-balanced that it works beautifully whenever you can source good quality halloumi and fresh cherries. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer dinner party or a weeknight meal, this salad is sure to impress with its sophisticated flavors and elegant presentation.
Fried Halloumi and Cherry Salad with Lemon Honey Dressing
Bring on cherry season! Fresh juicy cherries are the perfect pop of sweet to pair with tangy, savory fried halloumi with crunchy multigrain croutons and sweet lemon honey dressing.
Ingredients
Salad Base
Lemon Honey Dressing
Instructions
Prepare the Salad Base
- Remove the leaves of the kale from the stem and chop into bite sized pieces. Soak in cold water for about 5 minutes, then drain and dry well using either a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel. In a large bowl combine the kale and baby spinach.
Make the Croutons
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Toss the bread with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt. Spread into a single layer on a sheet pan. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring about half way.
Prep the Cherries
- Remove the stems and pits from the cherries. Slice each cherry in half and set aside.
Fry the Cheese
- Slice the halloumi into 8 to 10 rectangular slices. Heat a medium size, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Fry the cheese until golden brown on each side, about 2 minutes.
Make the Dressing
- In a mason jar, combine the dressing ingredients. Cover and shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds to combine.
Assemble and Serve
- Drizzle the salad with the lemon honey dressing and toss well to combine. Sprinkle the croutons and halved cherries over the leaves. Top the salad with fried halloumi pieces and a sprinkle of pine nuts over the top.