Do halloumi and pesto go together?

es — halloumi and pesto are the dream duo. In this halloumi and pesto recipe , the saltiness of the crispy cheese pairs perfectly with the zesty, herby basil pesto. It's no wonder this combo has gone viral. If you're putting together a mezze board or looking for the ultimate vegetarian snack, crispy halloumi bites with pesto should be your go-to.

What’s the best dip for a fried halloumi appetizer?

While pesto is the star of this fried halloumi appetizer , you can also experiment with spicy yogurt dip, harissa mayo, or lemon tahini sauce. Still, basil pesto remains the top pick — it's the classic pairing that makes this halloumi and pesto recipe shine.

How do you make halloumi bites crispy every time?

f you're wondering how to make halloumi bites crispy and golden, start by patting the cheese dry to eliminate moisture. Then coat each piece using a 3-step breading process: seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Fry until perfectly golden. The result? Ultra-crunchy crispy halloumi bites that are impossible to resist.

Is this fried halloumi appetizer healthy?

Like most fried cheese dishes, this fried halloumi appetizer is indulgent. It's rich in flavor, protein, and fat, making it more of an occasional treat than an everyday meal. Still, thanks to the basil pesto and quality ingredients, this halloumi and pesto recipe offers balance and bold Mediterranean flavor in every bite.

What’s the secret to making halloumi extra crispy?

The key is to pat the halloumi dry thoroughly before dredging it in flour or cornmeal. Any excess moisture can prevent proper browning and lead to sogginess. Frying in hot oil and giving each side space to crisp evenly will give you the perfect golden crust.

Can I bake or air-fry the halloumi instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely. For a lighter option, you can: Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Air-fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes for crisp, golden bites with less oil. Though slightly different in texture, both methods still deliver excellent results.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes — while homemade pesto offers fresher flavor and customization, a good-quality store-bought version works in a pinch. Just look for one made with real basil, olive oil, and Parmesan for best results.

How far in advance can I make this dish?

Halloumi is best served fresh , but you can: Make the pesto up to 5 days in advance (store in a sealed container). Prep the cheese and dredge it ahead, then refrigerate until ready to fry. Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet to regain crispiness — avoid the microwave.

7 Irresistible Reasons to Love Crispy Halloumi Bites with Creamy Pesto Dip

Name: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Love Crispy Halloumi Bites with Creamy Pesto Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz block of halloumi cheese; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying; 1½ cups fresh basil leaves; ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts); 2 garlic cloves; ½ cup olive oil; Salt to taste; Squeeze of lemon juice

Description

Crispy Halloumi Bites with pesto dip make the perfect appetizer—salty, golden cheese cubes served with a zesty, herby dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Halloumi Bites:

8 oz block of halloumi cheese
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp black pepper
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Pesto Dip:

1½ cups fresh basil leaves
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
2 garlic cloves
½ cup olive oil
Salt to taste
Squeeze of lemon juice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cut halloumi into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces)
Pat dry with paper towels to reduce moisture
Three bowls:
1st bowl: seasoned flour
2nd bowl: beaten eggs
3rd bowl: panko breadcrumbs
Bread and Fry
Dredge halloumi in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs
Heat oil over medium-high heat
Fry for 1–2 minutes each side until golden brown
Drain on paper towels
Make the Pesto Dip
In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, garlic, and parmesan
Slowly drizzle in olive oil
Add lemon juice and salt to taste

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Mediterranean