“Grilled” Halloumi Sandwich
baguette from Automne
mayonnaise or aïoli
halloumi cheese, pan-seared in a little olive oil
spicy carrot slaw
grated carrots
minced scallions
minced jalapeño pepper
grapeseed oil
rice vinegar
salt
pepper
honey
fresh cilantro leaves
green olives (in this case, “picholines” from France)
organic hothouse tomatoes
Optional, but recommended toppings:
cracked, pitted green olives
cucumber slices
ripe tomato slices
lettuce (butter, romaine)
The first time I ever had a grilled halloumi sandwich was on the island of Cyprus, its birthplace, in my early twenties. Food-wise, it was the dish that left the biggest impression on me on that leg of the trip. That and the old-school juice bars. I’ve never stopped craving them.
This sandwich is simple & satisfying. The combination of the honey, the cilantro, and the spicy slaw is the killer touch. Okay, well, I guess the perfectly pan-seared halloumi is pretty crucial, too.
And the bread. Let’s not forget about the bread.
All right, it’s an ensemble piece. Happy?
Enjoy.
aj