Step 1

Prepare the vinaigrette. Place vinaigrette ingredients in a mason jar, cover tightly and shake until well-combined. Set aside for now (you'll want to give the vinaigrette another shake before using).

Step 2

In a salad bowl, add all the salad ingredients except the halloumi cheese and basil.  Pour the vinaigrette and give the salad a gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning, add a sprinkle more of za'tar spice. Add the basil, and give one very quick and gentle toss.

Step 3

If adding halloumi cheese. Combine cheese cubes and about 1 to 2 tbsp or so extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl. Toss to coat the cheese with the EVOO. Heat an indoor griddle over medium heat. Add cheese cubes and grill for 2-3 minutes, turning over on all sides, until lightly browned and nice char marks appear (it should be crisp on the outside and nice and melty on the inside).

Step 4

Add the grilled Halloumi to the salad and serve immediately.