Anti-Inflammatory Herby Roasted Halloumi (Mediterranean Style)
A golden, protein-rich centerpiece for mezze boards, clean eating, and Mediterranean diets
Description
This Herby Roasted Halloumi is a bold, savory dish inspired by the Mediterranean anti-inflammatory diet. Thick slices of halloumi cheese are roasted or grilled until golden and crispy, then brushed with an aromatic blend of olive oil, garlic, turmeric, oregano, thyme, and lemon. The result is a satisfying, high-protein, low-carb dish packed with anti-inflammatory compounds, perfect for mezze platters, healthy dinners, or clean-eating meal prep.
Halloumi’s firm texture makes it an excellent chicken alternative, ideal for vegetarian, gluten-free, and Mediterranean lifestyles.
Ingredients
Halloumi
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8 oz (225 g) halloumi cheese, sliced ½ inch thick
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2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (anti-inflammatory fat)
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1 tsp turmeric powder
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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2 garlic cloves, finely minced
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Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
Lemon Herb Finish
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Zest of 1 organic lemon
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Optional: pinch of chili flakes (anti-inflammatory capsaicin)
Instructions
Oven-Roasted Method
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment.
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Whisk olive oil, turmeric, oregano, thyme, paprika, garlic, and pepper.
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Brush both sides of halloumi slices generously with the herb oil.
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Roast for 12–15 minutes, flip, then roast another 8–10 minutes until deeply golden.
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Finish with lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and chili flakes.
Grilled Method
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Grill over medium heat 3–4 minutes per side until charred and crisp.
Why This Recipe Is Anti-Inflammatory
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Extra-virgin olive oil: reduces chronic inflammation
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Turmeric: contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound
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Garlic & herbs: support immune health
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Lemon: alkalizing and antioxidant-rich
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Halloumi: high-protein, low-sugar, blood-sugar friendly
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
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Mediterranean mezze platter (with hummus, olives, cucumber, tomatoes)
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Anti-inflammatory vegetarian dinner
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High-protein meatless Monday meal
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Low-carb Mediterranean diet
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Healthy appetizer for entertaining
Pair with:
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Roasted red peppers
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Kalamata olives
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Whole-grain pita or gluten-free flatbread
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Tzatziki or hummus
Recipe Variations
🔥 Spicy Version
Add harissa paste or cayenne for metabolism-boosting heat.
🍋 Greek-Style
Use oregano, lemon, and serve with cucumber-tomato salad.
🌿 Middle Eastern Twist
Add cumin, coriander, and serve with baba ganoush.
🥗 Vegan Alternative
Swap halloumi for extra-firm tofu or grilled cauliflower steaks.
🍗 Chicken Option
Replace halloumi with chicken breast slices using the same marinade.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
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Calories: 260
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Protein: 15–18 g
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Fat: 20 g (mostly healthy fats)
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Carbs: 3–4 g
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Sugar: 0 g
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Calcium: High
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Gluten-Free: ✅
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Keto-Friendly: ✅
High-CPM SEO Keywords Used
Anti-inflammatory diet, Mediterranean diet recipe, healthy halloumi recipe, high protein vegetarian meal, gluten-free Mediterranean food, clean eating dinner ideas, low carb vegetarian recipes, anti-inflammatory foods, mezze platter ideas, healthy appetizer recipes
Related Questions
Is halloumi healthy?
Yes—when paired with anti-inflammatory ingredients and eaten in moderation.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. Store cooked halloumi in the fridge up to 3 days and reheat gently.
Is this good for weight loss?
Yes—high protein, low carb, and very satiating.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms instead.
Final Thoughts
This Herby Roasted Halloumi is more than a recipe—it’s a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory lifestyle dish rooted in Mediterranean tradition. Whether you’re building a show-stopping mezze board or craving a clean, satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers flavor, health, and versatility in every bite.
