Halloumi Burger with Herbed Yogurt Sauce – A Summer Favorite

When barbecue season is in full swing, it’s easy to fall into the same routines. But why not try something new this summer? Halloumi is the perfect vegetarian option – full of flavor and texture that holds up beautifully on the grill. In this recipe, we pair grilled halloumi with a creamy, herb-packed yogurt sauce and crisp, colorful toppings.

The result is a fresh and satisfying burger that’s ideal for everyday dinners or summer get-togethers. And to round things off, we’ve included drink pairings that elevate the whole experience.

Ingredients – 4 servings

For the burgers:

• 2 blocks of halloumi (approx. 200 g each), sliced into 1.5 cm thick slices

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Freshly ground black pepper

For the herbed yogurt sauce:

• 2 dl Greek yogurt (or plant-based alternative)

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 dl mixed fresh herbs (e.g. mint, parsley, basil), finely chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

• 4 burger buns (brioche or sourdough recommended)

• Lettuce leaves

• Sliced tomatoes

• Pickled red onion

• Optional: sliced avocado or grilled bell pepper

Instructions

1. Make the herbed yogurt sauce: Mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors develop.

2. Grill the halloumi: Brush with olive oil, season with pepper, and grill for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.

3. Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a pan.

4. Assemble the burgers: Add lettuce, halloumi, tomato, pickled red onion, and a generous spoon of the yogurt sauce. Top with avocado or grilled pepper if desired.

Drink Pairings for Halloumi Burgers

Wine:

• Sauvignon Blanc – crisp and herbal, pairs well with the tangy sauce and salty cheese.

• Dry rosé – from Provence or Navarra, with good acidity and a fruity finish.

Beer:

• Wheat beer – light and refreshing, a classic match for grilled halloumi.

• Session IPA – with citrus notes and gentle bitterness to cut through the richness.

Non-alcoholic:

• Lemonade with mint or cucumber – refreshing and vibrant.

• Citrus or ginger kombucha – adds a balanced, tangy complexity.