The Ultimate Golden Halloumi Wrap with Zesty Harissa Mayo

🌍 Cuisine: Middle Eastern
🏷️ Category: Main Course
⏱️ Prep: 15 minutes
🍳 Cook: 10 minutes
👥 Serves: 2 servings

📝 About This Recipe

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this vibrant, texture-rich Halloumi Wrap. Featuring salty, squeaky Cypriot cheese seared to golden perfection, this wrap balances heat and freshness with a smoky harissa-infused sauce and a crisp herb salad. It is the quintessential Middle Eastern street food experience—fast, satisfying, and bursting with bold, aromatic flavors.

🥗 Ingredients

The Halloumi

  • 250 grams Halloumi Cheese (sliced into 1cm thick rectangles)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (for searing)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano (for dusting)

Harissa Mayo Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons Greek Yogurt (plain and thick)
  • 1 tablespoon Mayonnaise (full fat preferred)
  • 1-2 teaspoons Harissa Paste (adjust based on heat preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Honey (to balance the spice)

The Wrap & Fillings

  • 2 pieces Khobez or Large Tortilla (fresh Middle Eastern flatbread)
  • 4 tablespoons Hummus (smooth, classic style)
  • 1/4 cup Cucumber (thinly sliced half-moons)
  • 6 pieces Cherry Tomatoes (quartered)
  • 2 tablespoons Pickled Red Onions (drained)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Mint & Parsley (roughly chopped leaves)
  • 1 tablespoon Pomegranate Seeds (for a sweet pop of crunch)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Begin by preparing the Harissa Mayo: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, harissa paste, lemon juice, and honey until smooth. Taste and adjust heat as desired, then set aside in the fridge.

  2. 2

    Slice the halloumi into 1cm thick slabs. Pat them thoroughly dry with a paper towel; removing moisture is the secret to getting that perfect golden crust without the cheese sticking.

  3. 3

    Prepare your vegetables: slice the cucumbers, quarter the tomatoes, and chop your fresh herbs. Having everything ready to go is essential for a hot wrap.

  4. 4

    Heat a non-stick frying pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat the surface.

  5. 5

    Place the halloumi slices in the hot pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on the first side until a deep golden-brown crust forms.

  6. 6

    Flip the halloumi slices carefully. Sprinkle with the dried oregano and fry for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is soft and slightly melting in the middle.

  7. 7

    While the halloumi finishes, lightly toast your flatbreads directly over a low gas flame for 5 seconds or in a separate dry pan until pliable and warm.

  8. 8

    Lay the warm flatbread on a clean surface. Spread 2 tablespoons of hummus down the center of each wrap, leaving room at the edges.

  9. 9

    Layer the fresh cucumber, tomatoes, and pickled red onions over the hummus base.

  10. 10

    Place the hot, golden halloumi slices on top of the vegetables.

  11. 11

    Drizzle generously with the prepared Harissa Mayo and scatter the fresh mint, parsley, and pomegranate seeds over the top.

  12. 12

    Fold the bottom of the wrap up, then tuck in the sides and roll tightly to secure all those delicious fillings.

  13. 13

    Optional: Place the rolled wrap back into the hot pan for 30 seconds per side to 'seal' the seam and add an extra bit of crunch to the bread.

  14. 14

    Slice diagonally and serve immediately while the cheese is still warm and squeaky.

💡 Chef's Tips

Always pat the halloumi dry before frying to ensure it sears rather than steams. If you don't like spice, swap the harissa for a squeeze of lime and a pinch of smoked paprika. Don't overcook the halloumi; once it's golden, remove it immediately or it can become rubbery. For an extra flavor punch, use garlic-infused olive oil to fry the cheese. If using thicker pita bread, slice it open to create a pocket rather than rolling it like a wrap.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crispy Za'atar fries and a lemon wedge. Pair with a cold glass of sparkling mint lemonade or an iced Hibiscus tea. A small side of Tabbouleh salad adds a great acidic contrast to the salty cheese. Enjoy with a portion of salty Kalamata olives and extra hummus for dipping.