If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant twist on burger night, the Haloumi Burger with Herby Mayo and Roasted Capsicum Recipe is going to become your new favorite. This delightful vegetarian burger brings together the salty, squeaky goodness of golden-fried haloumi, zesty herby mayo packed with fresh basil and parsley, and sweet, smoky roasted capsicum that adds a burst of color and flavor. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that feels indulgent and wholesome at the same time, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring as a satisfying solo meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board with several colorful ingredients arranged on it: thinly sliced purple onion rings at the top left, bright red roasted pepper strips on the right side, and white mozzarella cheese slices neatly stacked at the bottom right. A clear glass bowl filled with fresh green arugula leaves sits on the bottom left corner of the cutting board. In the background, a small glass bowl contains a creamy herb mixture with a red silicone spatula inside. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient here plays a special role in creating the wonderful balance of flavors and textures that make this burger so unforgettable. From the creamy mayo infused with fresh herbs to the toasted ciabatta buns that add the perfect crunch, these essentials come together effortlessly.

Fresh basil: Provides a fragrant, peppery note that brightens the herby mayo.
Fresh parsley: Adds a subtle earthiness and vibrant green color to the sauce.
Mayonnaise: Serves as the creamy base that ties all the flavors together.
Garlic clove, crushed: Brings a gentle kick that wakes up the mayo without overpowering it.
Lemon juice: Adds acidity to balance the richness of the haloumi and mayo.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
Toasted ciabatta buns: Offer a sturdy, crunchy base that holds all the layers perfectly.
Rocket (arugula): Adds peppery bite and freshness under the haloumi.
Roasted capsicum, sliced: Introduces a sweet, smoky element that complements the salty cheese wonderfully.
Haloumi, sliced: The star of the show with its juicy, golden-fried goodness and satisfying texture.
Red onion, sliced: Provides a sharp, slightly sweet crunch to cut through the creamy and cheesy layers.
Tomato relish: Adds a tangy, sweet finishing layer on the top bun for that perfect flavor pop.

How to Make Haloumi Burger with Herby Mayo and Roasted Capsicum Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up the Herby Mayo

Start by placing your fresh basil and parsley in a pull chopper or food processor and finely chopping them. This is where the magic begins—those fresh herbs bring the mayo to life. Next, add the mayonnaise, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper, then blitz everything together until smooth and well combined. The herby mayo should be vibrant, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavors that will tie all the burger components together beautifully.

Step 2: Perfectly Fry the Haloumi

Heat a non-stick pan over a gentle heat and lightly spray it with canola oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the haloumi slices in the pan and fry for about two minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step is crucial because it not only enhances the taste but also gives each slice that irresistible squeak and firmness you want in every bite. Once cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble Your Burger

Lay your toasted ciabatta buns open on a clean surface. Spread a generous spoonful of the herby mayo on the base of each bun—this creamy layer anchors all the flavors. Next, add a handful of fresh rocket for a peppery crunch, followed by slices of roasted capsicum for a touch of sweetness and color. Pile on the beautifully fried haloumi pieces, then scatter some thinly sliced red onion for that subtle sharpness. Finally, spread tomato relish on the top bun and crown your masterpiece. The layers will look vibrant and ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Haloumi Burger with Herby Mayo and Roasted Capsicum Recipe

Two sandwiches sit on a dark wooden board. Each sandwich has a golden brown, slightly crispy top bun. Inside, there are three thick, light golden pieces of grilled cheese with some dark grill marks on them. Underneath the cheese, green leafy arugula leaves and sliced red tomatoes are visible, along with thin rings of purple onion. A creamy green sauce is spread on the bottom bread, with a few droplets showing. A patterned small bowl with extra green sauce is placed to the side. The background has a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A few extra sprigs of fresh basil or parsley make a delightful garnish, adding a hint of herbal fragrance as you bite in. Consider a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top if you want to brighten it even more right before serving.

Side Dishes

This burger pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, crunchy sweet potato fries, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. These sides balance the richness of the haloumi and keep the meal feeling fresh and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, serve the burgers deconstructed on a beautiful wooden board with all the components separately arranged, letting guests build their own creations. Alternatively, swap the ciabatta for a gluten-free bun or serve the burger on a bed of leafy greens wrapped in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb twist. Presentation can be as fun and flexible as your taste buds desire!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep everything fresh, store any leftover fried haloumi, herby mayo, and roasted capsicum separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This prevents sogginess and preserves the individual flavors for the next day.

Freezing

Haloumi does not freeze well as it can change texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the herby mayo without the garlic for up to a month in a sealed container, then stir well before using. Roasted capsicum also freezes well, but its texture may soften slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

When ready to eat leftovers, gently reheat the haloumi slices in a non-stick pan over medium heat to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese rubbery. Warm the roasted capsicum briefly in the oven or microwave, and let the herby mayo stay cold to keep its freshness.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of haloumi?

Haloumi’s unique texture and salty flavor make it perfect for this burger, but if you’re looking for an alternative, paneer is a decent substitute. Keep in mind that other cheeses might not hold their shape as well when fried.

Is there a vegan version of the Haloumi Burger with Herby Mayo and Roasted Capsicum Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute haloumi with firm tofu or a plant-based cheese and use vegan mayonnaise. Roasted capsicum and fresh herbs will still provide plenty of flavor and texture to keep the burger delicious.

How spicy is the herby mayo?

The herby mayo is mild and fresh, with earthy herbal notes and a gentle kick from garlic. If you want some heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mayo is a great option.

Can I grill the haloumi instead of frying it?

Absolutely! Grilling haloumi adds a lovely smoky flavor and grill marks that look fantastic. Just be sure to oil the grill well to prevent sticking and grill for about 2–3 minutes on each side.

What’s the best type of bread for these burgers?

Toasted ciabatta is ideal because it’s sturdy enough to hold the layers and adds a delightful crunch. However, you could use brioche buns or a crusty sourdough roll if you prefer a softer or tangier base.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into a Haloumi Burger with Herby Mayo and Roasted Capsicum Recipe that’s fresh, vibrant, and full of contrasting textures and flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and exciting, perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll quickly see why it steals the spotlight on burger menus and in home kitchens alike. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Haloumi Burger with Herby Mayo and Roasted Capsicum Recipe