Cheese & Pineapple Canapés with Mint and Sesame Recipe

Introduction

These Cheese & Pineapple Canapés offer a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. Perfect as a party appetizer, they bring a fresh twist with roasted pineapple and charred halloumi, topped with mint and sesame seeds for an aromatic finish.

Ingredients

• 500g fresh pineapple pieces
• 1 bunch mint
• 25g toasted sesame seeds
• 250g pack halloumi

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/gas mark 4. Chop the pineapple into chunks and place them in a roasting tin. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the pineapple turns golden. Once done, cover and set aside.
2. Step 2: Finely chop the mint leaves and mix them with the toasted sesame seeds in a dish. Set this mixture aside.
3. Step 3: Cut the halloumi into cubes. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and char the halloumi cubes on all sides until golden brown.
4. Step 4: Toss the roasted pineapple chunks in the sesame and mint mixture to coat them evenly.
5. Step 5: Thread a piece of coated pineapple and a cube of halloumi onto cocktail sticks to assemble each canapé. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra zing, drizzle a little honey or a squeeze of lime over the canapés before serving.
• Swap halloumi for firm tofu if you want a vegetarian option with less salt.
• Adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to the sesame and mint mixture adds a pleasant heat.

Storage

These canapés are best served fresh for the best texture and flavor. However, you can prepare the components separately and store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the roasted pineapple gently, and char halloumi cubes again in a pan before assembling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Fresh pineapple works best for roasting and flavor, but if using canned, drain well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture when roasting.

How do I prevent halloumi from sticking to the pan?

Use a well-heated non-stick pan and avoid adding oil. Let the halloumi sear without moving it too soon to form a crust that helps prevent sticking.

Cheese & Pineapple Canapés with Mint and Sesame Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 103 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 20 canapés 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful Cheese & Pineapple Canapés combining sweet roasted pineapple, savory charred halloumi, fresh mint, and toasted sesame seeds, perfect for an elegant appetizer or party snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Produce

• 500g fresh pineapple pieces
• 1 bunch mint leaves

Dairy

• 250g pack halloumi

Pantry

• 25g toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Roast Pineapple: Heat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Chop the fresh pineapple into chunks and spread them evenly in a roasting tin. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the pineapple is golden and caramelized. Remove from the oven, cover, and set aside to keep warm.
2. Prepare Sesame and Mint Mix: While the pineapple is roasting, finely chop the mint leaves. Combine the chopped mint with the toasted sesame seeds in a serving dish and set aside for tossing the pineapple later.
3. Char Halloumi: Cut the halloumi cheese into bite-sized cubes. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat and char the halloumi cubes on all sides until golden and slightly crispy, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
4. Toss and Assemble: Toss the roasted pineapple pieces in the sesame and mint mixture until evenly coated. Thread each canapé by alternating a piece of pineapple and a cube of halloumi onto cocktail sticks.
5. Serve: Arrange the canapés on a platter and serve immediately while the halloumi is warm and the pineapple is fresh and flavorful.

Notes

• Roasting the pineapple enhances its natural sweetness and adds a lovely caramelized flavor to the canapés.
• Char-grilling the halloumi gives it a crispy texture and robust flavor that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Feel free to substitute halloumi with another firm cheese if preferred, but grilling is recommended to maintain the structure.
• For a nutty crunch, ensure sesame seeds are well toasted before mixing.
• These canapés are best served fresh to enjoy the contrasting textures and temperatures.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: cheese canapés, pineapple appetizers, halloumi recipes, party snacks, fresh mint, sesame seeds