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Fried Arabic Cheesein Olive Oil with Pickled Lemon and Caramelized Grapes

Recipe by Shikha Almasa on InstagramAdded 1 August 2026.

10 minutes to prep, 15 to cook. A flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired appetizer that combines salty, firm Halloumi cheese with the bright acidity of pickled lemon and the sweet burst of caramelized grapes. The quick fry in olive oil creates a crisp crust, making it perfect for a light dinner or snack.

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Fried Arabic Cheese in Olive Oil with Pickled Lemon and Caramelized Grapes by Shikha Almasa, a frame from the Instagram video

Method

  1. Heat the olive oil in a non‑stick skillet over medium heat (about 350°F / 350°F).

  2. Add the sliced Halloumi cheese to the skillet and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 2–3 minutes per side.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Both sides of the Halloumi are golden brown.

  3. Remove the fried cheese with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a warm plate.

  4. In the same skillet, add the halved grapes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to caramelize and release their juices, about 5 minutes.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The grapes begin to caramelize and release their juices. Stir occasionally as they cook.

  5. Return the fried Halloumi to the skillet, add the sliced pickled lemon, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  6. Cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to re‑heat.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The cheese is heated through and the flavors have melded.

  7. Transfer the cheese, grapes, and lemon to a serving plate.

  8. Garnish optionally with fresh herbs such as mint or parsley and serve hot.

Tips while you cook

Pre‑heat oil before adding cheese
Heat the olive oil over medium heat until hot, then add the sliced Halloumi.
Use a slotted spoon to keep cheese dry
Remove the fried cheese with a slotted spoon and place it on a warm plate before proceeding with the grapes.
Stir grapes occasionally while caramelizing
Cook the halved grapes, stirring occasionally.
Finish with a brief combined cook
After returning the cheese and adding lemon, cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes to re‑heat the cheese and meld flavors.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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Shikha Almasa made this.

The recipe comes from Shikha Almasa’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

Are you Shikha Almasa and want this changed? Email [email protected].

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