BBQ Tomato and Halloumi Skewers with Fresh Basil Pesto

These BBQ tomato and halloumi skewers are a vibrant, vegetarian delight, perfect for summer barbecues or quick family meals. Sweet cherry tomatoes pair beautifully with salty halloumi cheese, all topped with a fresh, zesty basil pesto. Serve these skewers hot off the grill with warm pitta bread for a satisfying and healthy dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

• 250g Isle of Wight mixed mini plum tomatoes
• 250g halloumi cheese, cut into 16 chunks

For the Basil Pesto

• 2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Prepare the Pesto

   • In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely ground.
   • With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth but still slightly textured.
   • Add the sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast. Pulse a few more times to fully combine. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Skewers

   • Thread the halloumi chunks and mixed mini plum tomatoes onto skewers, alternating each item for a colourful presentation.
   • Generously baste the skewers with the freshly made basil pesto.

3. Grill the Skewers

   • Preheat your barbecue or grill pan to medium-high heat.
   • Place the skewers on the grill rack and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning frequently, until the halloumi is golden and the tomatoes are slightly tender.

4. Serve and Enjoy

   • Serve the skewers hot with warm pitta bread or as part of a larger barbecue spread.

Tips for Success

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before use to prevent burning.
• For added flavour, sprinkle the skewers with a touch of smoked paprika or chilli flakes before grilling.
• Use any leftover pesto as a dip or spread for sandwiches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Healthy and Vegetarian: Packed with fresh ingredients, this dish is a wholesome alternative to traditional barbecue fare.
• Versatile: Serve these skewers as a starter, side dish, or main course for any occasion.

BBQ tomato and halloumi skewers with fresh basil pesto are a must-try recipe for summer grilling. The sweetness of roasted tomatoes pairs perfectly with the savoury halloumi, while the homemade pesto adds a burst of fresh flavour. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or craving a simple yet satisfying vegetarian dish, these skewers are sure to impress.