The Grilled Halloumi & Mint Pizza is a Mediterranean twist that brings bright, refreshing flavors to your dinner table. Instead of the usual mozzarella, this recipe stars grilled halloumi cheese, known for its salty bite and chewy texture, perfectly balanced by roasted red peppers, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant fresh mint. The base is kept simple with a drizzle of olive oil that lets the toppings shine.
This pizza is an ideal choice for summer nights, dinner parties, or anytime you want something a little different from classic pizza styles. It’s light, colorful, and packed with bold flavors that pair beautifully with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine. Whether you’re a halloumi lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe makes it easy to fall in love with this unique cheese.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ball pizza dough about 12–14 oz
- 2 tbsp olive oil plus extra for brushing
- 6 oz halloumi cheese sliced into 1/4-inch slabs
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers sliced
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves torn or chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Place a pizza stone in the oven and preheat to 500°F (260°C). Allow the stone to heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the halloumi: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Lightly brush the halloumi slices with olive oil and grill for 1–2 minutes per side until golden grill marks form. Set aside.
- Prepare the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal.
- Build the base: Brush the dough evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes across the base.
- Add toppings: Arrange the grilled halloumi slices evenly over the dough. Scatter roasted red peppers and Kalamata olives across the top. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Bake the pizza: Slide the pizza onto the preheated stone and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the crust is golden and crisp.
- Finish with mint: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh mint leaves. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy while warm.
Notes
- For a softer bite, replace halloumi with fresh mozzarella, though you’ll lose the unique grilled flavor.
- Add thin slices of red onion for extra crunch and sweetness.
- This pizza pairs beautifully with tzatziki or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.
FAQ ?
Q1: Can I make Grilled Halloumi & Mint Pizza without a pizza stone?
Yes! If you don’t have a pizza stone, use a heavy baking sheet flipped upside down. Preheat it in the oven the same way to mimic the stone’s heat.
Q2: What other herbs can I use instead of mint?
Fresh basil or parsley work well if you prefer a milder flavor. Mint, however, adds a refreshing contrast to the salty halloumi.
Q3: Can this pizza be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the toppings and dough in advance, but assemble and bake the pizza right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q4: Is halloumi cheese vegetarian?
Yes, halloumi is vegetarian-friendly as it’s made with rennet derived from microbial or vegetable sources. Always check the label to confirm.
Q5: What wine pairs best with this pizza?
A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the briny, salty flavors beautifully.
