halloumi “sliders” with zesty strawberry salad and chopped pistachio

I recently started taking Adeline with me to the grocery store – she’d been a few times previously but only as a young baby and “pre-covid.” Now, when we enter any grocery store she lets out a loud “yeah!” and proceeds to clap and smile at everyone. I don’t know if it’s because she spent the last year in covid quarantine, or if she just loves grocery stores, but if I needed any further confirmation that she is indeed my daughter, this would be it. To her, the grocery store is Disneyland, and in my opinion she is not wrong.

Before you forget, let me remind you that strawberries are in season! These halloumi sliders are a delicious summer appetizer or side dish – the strawberry salad makes me want to blow a chef’s kiss with every bite. Happy almost summer solstice to you all!

HALLOUMI “SLIDERS” WITH ZESTY STRAWBERRY SALAD AND CHOPPED PISTACHIO
makes 8-10 sliders

Ingredients:
8 oz halloumi, cut into 8-10 slices
canola oil for cooking
1 cup arugula
2 tablespoons chopped mint
1.5 cups sliced strawberries
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
pinch of cayenne
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup chopped pistachios*

Directions:

1. Heat a medium pan (I like to use cast iron) over medium heat. Pour enough canola oil in the pan to lightly coat the surface. Lay the halloumi slices in the pan and cook until the bottom sides are golden brown. Flip the halloumi slices over and cook the remaining side until golden brown. Place the halloumi on a plate and set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, toss together the arugula, mint, strawberries, honey, lime, cayenne, and black pepper.

3. When ready to serve, arrange the halloumi on a platter. Spoon the strawberries evenly on top of the halloumi pieces. Garnish with chopped pistachios.

*I used to hate chopping nuts because they would get everywhere and make a big mess. I started using this product instead and highly recommend it.

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