Here’s a look at our 10 favorite, traditional Greek recipes:

Avgolemono Soup

The the most popular of Greek soups, Avgolemono features a unique soup broth made from stock, eggs, and lemon. You can technically use any type of stock you have on hadn’t, such as vegetable stock or lamb broth. However, this is mostly commonly made with chicken stock, especially in the United States. For best results, make your own stock out of whole chickens and add some of the chicken meat to each bowl

Baklava

Baklava is probably the most well known of all the Greek desserts and it is what people turn to when they want to eat a traditional Greek pastry. Sure, there are versions of baklava present in other cultures, but the Greek version is fairly unique. It is typically made from walnuts, but almonds are also a popular choice. The preference is to to mix honey into the syrup, as well, especially since honey is so prevalent in Greece.

Dolmades

Dolmades are also another one of those traditional Greek foods that are extremely common. At certain times of the year, Greeks throughout the world could be find picking grape leaves at the right time of year in order to preserve them to make dolmades, or to make a fresh batch of the beloved food. There are different versions of this depending on family traditions or the region of Greece. Typically, they are made with some kind of ground meat, such as beef, pork, or lamb, and some rice.

Horiatiki

When you visit Greece, chances are pretty good that you will eat a lot of this type of salad. The salads in Greece typically don’t use a lot of lettuce since this is a plant that doesn’t grow well there, especially in the hotter months. This beloved salad includes only the freshest ingredients, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions. It also contains plenty of Greek olives and feta cheese. No dressing is used but the mixture gets its flavor from olive oil, oregano, and the juices from the tomatoes.

Koulourakia

Koulourakia is another dessert that is extremely common in Greek cooking. Although this is considered to be the traditional cookie that is served at Easter, in truth it is enjoyed all year long. Recipes vary depending on the family and the region but there are versions that use various Greek liqueurs, orange zest, and even wine! It tastes especially good when enjoying a cup of Greek coffee.

Moussaka

Eggplants are an ingredient commonly found throughout Greece, and this dish is one of the most popular ways to make it. It features layers of eggplant and is typically finished with a creamy béchamel sauce that has been mixed with some egg so that it gets fluffy in the oven. There are both meat-based and vegetarian versions of this dish, which means that it has a universal appeal.

Pastitsio

Pastitsio can be looked at as the Greek version of lasagna or baked macaroni, depending on how it’s made. Typically, macaroni is mixed with ground meat and Greek cheese and is finished with a creamy béchamel sauce. Because the sauce had been mixed with egg, it bakes fluffy. There are also vegetarian versions of this dish so that those who are fasting can also enjoy it.

Souvlaki

If you want to eat an ultra traditional food while in Greece, you’ll want to eat some souvlaki! You can not only order this dish while dining in restaurants, but it is also a popular street food. This can be made using any kind of meat, but popular choices include chicken, pork, and lamb. There are many ways to make this, but some of the most traditional versions include an olive oil and lemon marinade.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita is one of the most beloved, phyllo based foods present in Greek cooking. Spinach is used prevalently outside of Greece. However, spinach isn’t always accessible in Greece so it is made from whichever greens that can be found, such as dandelion, vleeta (amaranth), and levethies (lamb’s quarters). This dish also uses plenty of feta cheese!

Tzatziki

This is probably the most popular dip that exists in Greek cuisine. In Greece, this is usually brought out with some bread as you first drive, and it is often given “on the house” and as a gesture of hospitality. It is also used as both a dip and a condiment. It tastes great when dunking bits of bread into it, but it is also nice when topping souvlaki. It is also a crucial ingredient in the gyro.

There are so many great foods that make up Greek cooking that it can be hard to choose. These are some of the most traditional dishes that you can find!

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Here’s a look at some of the best pita recipes that can be found in Greek cooking:

Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)

One of the most popular and beloved of all the pita recipes, spanakopita is a staple of Greek cuisine. In this dish, a filling of spinach, feta, egg, and possibly other cheeses (depending on the recipe) is spread across layers of phyllo dough. While recipes may differ, the fact remains that this is an incredibly popular dish.

Tiropita (Cheese Pie)

Tiropita, also known as cheese pita or cheese pie, is another popular phyllo-based dish. There are so many types of cheese that work well in this dish, however, recipes differ highly. Our version uses uses a mixture of feta, the most popular of all the Greek cheese, and Kefalotiri. Both of these can be found in supermarkets and specialty stores. If you can’t find Kefalotiri, consider substituting with Romano cheese.

Kolokithopita (Zucchini Pie)

Kolokithopita, also known as zucchini pita or zucchini pie, is another fairly popular phyllo dish in Greek cuisine. This is especially the case in the summer when zucchini are in season. Our version uses zucchini (but you can substitute with summer squash), and savory ingredients like onions, scallions, and parsley. The feta cheese in this dish balances out the zucchini nicely.

Prassopita (Leek Pie)

Although this dish is an important part of Greek cuisine, it isn’t made that often. However, it is a wonderful thing to make when leeks are in season! Our version of prassopita, or leek pie, includes leeks, potatoes, Kalamata olives, and cheeses such as Kefalotiri and Parmesan. Feel free to substitute the Kefalotiri for Romano cheese if you are having trouble finding it.

Hortopita (Greens Pie)

Spanakopita isn’t as popular in Greece as it is in places like the United States. One of the biggest reasons for this is that spinach isn’t always available because it can be too hot there for spinach to thrive. There are, however, an abundance of other types of greens that are both wild and cultivated. Most of these greens taste great in a pita. This is the same concept as spanakopita, but it uses a different type of green.

Kotopita (Chicken Pie)

Not all pita recipes need to include vegetables – some include meats! Kotopita, or chicken pita, involves creating a savory chicken filling and spreading it across layers of phyllo dough. Our recipe uses chicken, Kefalotiri Cheese (if you can’t find it use Romano), and a creamy béchamel. Kotopita has a delicate, creamy flavor.

Kreatopita (Meat Pie)

Another great pita recipe you can try is Kreatopita, or one made of meat. In this recipe, you can use any type of meat you want, such as beef, pork, or lamb. Our version actually uses beef, but feel free to substitute with other types of meat. Our version flavors the meat with fresh parsley. However, some versions of the recipe that are out there use cinnamon, instead.

Arnopita (Lamb Pie)

Although you could easily use ground lamb in the Kreatopita recipe listed above, this Arnopita, or lamb pita recipe, uses some special ingredients that enhance the lamb’s flavor. For example, the recipe calls for the use of the pan juices and is flavored with orange zest, which enhances the meat.

As you can see, there is a large variety of pita recipes in Greek cuisine that you won’t want to miss the chance to try. Be sure to use the freshest and most authentic Greek ingredients possible so they can be as delicious as possible. These recipes use phyllo dough, which is readily available. You also might want to consider making your own.

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Here is a roundup of our favorite recipes that involve Feta cheese:

Horiatiki – Greek Village Salad 

This is the most traditional and popular of all the Greek salads. Horiatiki is made with the freshest vegetables popular, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, Greek olives, and feta cheese. It is finished with some traditional Greek olive oil and Greek oregano. It’s a staple at just about every Greek dinner table.

Spanakopita – Spinach Pie

Spanakopita, or spinach pie, is one of the most popular of all the savory dishes in Greek cuisine. Spinach is used whenever it is available, but it also tastes delicious with other greens. The version that uses other greens is called “hortopita“. Both versions use a lot of feta cheese and make for a delicious addition to any meal.

Greek-Style Bruschetta 

Bruschetta isn’t classically a Greek dish, but you can easily use Greek ingredients like feta cheese to give it a Greek flair. This recipe makes a great addition to any Greek table as a side dish, appetizer (mezze), or as a simple snack. I like to finish mine off with some authentic Greek olive oil and Greek oregano.

Whipped Feta Spread

When you visit the tavernas and restaurants of Greece, it is pretty common for the table to be filled with simple dishes to snack on. You could be at these places for hours, and snacks like this whipped feta spread taste delicious with fresh bread. The ingredients are simple, as well. All you need is some feta cheese, Greek olive oil, and authentic oregano. To give it a whipped, frothy appearance, you will want to mix it in a blender or food processor.

Tiropita – Cheese Pita

Tiropita, or cheese pita, is another dish that uses plenty of feta cheese. In this recipe, a creamy cheese mixture that usually involves mixing feta with a creamier cheese, like ricotta, are baked in between layers of phyllo dough until crispy. This dish is a staple all over dish. The fun of it is that you can actually change the cheeses depending on what you have on hand, as long as feta is included in the mix!

Baked Feta with Tomatoes

Did you know that feta cheese tastes delicious baked? The cheese gets really creamy when it is baked in the oven, but you need to be careful! If it isn’t authentic Greek feta cheese it doesn’t melt as well. In this recipe, the tomatoes provide the perfect complement to the feta cheese.

Feta is a staple of Greek cuisine and these dishes all taste great with it!

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However, there are also those who love experimenting with this concept by trying different combinations. Here are a few variations of Greek style Gyros you may want to try:

Grilled Chicken Gyro

Greek style grilled chicken, such as chicken souvlaki, which is skewered, makes for a pleasant gyro variation. It is also more common than people realize, as it is even possible to find grilled chicken gyros in Greece. For those making gyros at home, it makes the gyro even more accessible, since grilled chicken is such a popular dish.

Sausage Gyros

When you make these sausage gyros, the possibilities are nearly limitless. You can use any kind of sausage that you want, but if you want to keep the flavors authentically Greek, you should use Greek sausage, also known as loukaniko. Although loukaniko recipes do differ according to the region of Greece or the individuals who make them, the flavor profile is similar. Typically, the meat is spiced with coriander, fennel seed, oregano, and black pepper. Some variations use fennel bulb instead of the seed, as well as orange peels. They all taste great in a gyro.

Gyros with Hummus

Traditionally, gyros are made with tzatziki, a tangy Greek yogurt dip, as its main condiment. If you want to experiment with different flavors, an easy way to do this is to substitute the tzatziki for hummus! The flavor is a little different, but the hummus still complements the gyro meat nicely. For an extra special gyro, consider making the hummus from scratch.

Fried Eggplant Gyro

Gyros are not typically vegetarian friendly. However, this variation is! Instead of meat, this gyro is stuffed with fried eggplant, which has a hearty texture. Some people make the mistake of simply omitting the gyro meat and leaving the vegetables when preparing vegetarian gyros. Although that can be delicious, it is a much better treat to use fried eggplant.

Greek Salad Gyros

There are two ways you can prepare these Greek salad gyros. If you are a vegetarian, consider omitting the gyro meat. If you love gyro meat and are just looking for something different, this gyro recipe is worth trying. You can substitute the gyro meat for other meats, such as chicken, if you want to change things up even further.

Fried Fish Gyros

If you need a change from meat, you can also try these fried fish gyros. Crispy, fried fish is stuffed into this traditional sandwiches, but the rest of the fillings are the same. You can also consider substituting the tzatziki for tarter sauce, which will give it a distinct flavor more reminiscent of an American-style fish sandwich. It is a cross between the two.

If you are looking to try something different the next time you eat gyros, consider one of these variations.

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There is a certain collection of foods that is regularly served as part of a mezze, or Greek appetizer spread. Here are some of the most common:

Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Stuffed grape leaves are a wonderful addition to the table! They can be served as an appetizer or as a main course, depending on the occasion. For these, rice is cooked with herbs and meat (optional) before being rolled in the leaves. This shows that Greeks don’t like to let any part of plant go to waste, as they leaves are usually picked in limited quantities from grapevines that are used for winemaking.

Saganaki (Flaming Cheese)

When Greeks came to America, they wanted something special. This is where the flaming cheese came into being. Saganaki is cheese that’s been pan fried with a little alcohol. The cheese is set on fire and brought the table. It’s cheesy.  It’s the ideal thing to have when you’re on a date at your favorite Greek dinner and want a little delight to the start of your meal and it is extremely fun to watch the fire burn. It also gives the cheese a nice flavor.

Marinated Greek Olives

Olives go with everything and they are abundantly grown in Greece. This means that they are usually found at the dinner table!  Marinated olives bring the olive to a whole new level and is a nice addition to any meal. It also goes with anything.

Tiropita (Cheese Phyllo Triangles)

Phyllo is a wonderful food because of the way it bakes. It’s flaky and crunchy without being greasy or too heavy. These cheese filled pastries are an excellent way to take the edge off your hunger while you’re waiting for the main course to come along. Every person at your table can have their own triangle!

Spanakopita (Spinach Phyllo Triangles)

The classic spanakopita is made from a few simple ingredient. Experts take pastry, add in fresh spinach and bring along an extra zing with some zesty feta cheese. You can enjoy these at the start of your own meal. They are the very essence of Greek cuisine. The pastries are portable so you don’t need a knife and fork to dip right in. They’re also something that is just a bit filling. Spanakopita are also fully vegetarian so everyone at your table can take some. They’re also equally good when served hot or cold.

Tzatziki (Yogurt Cucumber Dip)

Yogurt is one of the foundations of Greek cuisine. If you love Greek yogurt too, this is an excellent dip to try! It all starts with yogurt that’s been drained overnight. Then it’s mixed with cucumber, garlic,  and herbs. This the right thing to nibble with a few slices of pita bread and also tastes great accompanying the main course.

Greek Bruschetta

Crunchy bread topped with marinated vegetables. This is what you want to eat when you want to eat it. You’ll discover a world of flavors in each bite. Greek Bruchetta takes the idea of the standard Italian version and brings it to a whole new level. Have a few bites and enjoy the merge of flavors in your mouth.

Feta Spread

Feta is one of the most adored food items in Greece. The creamy, tart cheese lends itself to a wide variety of varied preparations. Sample it in the form of a dip that’s been whipped into shape just for you. Feta spread makes a wonderful thing to share at the table with other people. It works with the fresh vegetables that are such a part of Greek culture or toasted bread.

These Greek appetizers are a great addition to any table!

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Here’s a look at the best soups that Greek cuisine has to offer:

Avgolemono – Chicken Soup

Especially amongst the Greek diaspora in the United States and other countries, Avgolemono Soup, which is usually made with chicken stock, is by far the most popular. The stock is mixed with egg and lemon and the finished soup also contains either rice or orzo and pieces of chicken. However, not all versions include the chicken meat. There are other versions of this soup that exist that use other ingredients, such as vegetable stock and are mixed with vegetables instead of chicken.

Fakes – Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is one of the most popular Greek soups out there and it is widely available in Greece and throughout the Greek diaspora. Slight variations of this soup exist, but our version uses a traditional vegan preparation where the broth is flavored by garlic and onion. It is usually served with a splash of vinegar to brighten up the dish. Since the lentils don’t need to be soaked overnight, this cuts down time and can be prepared at the last minute.

Fasolada – White Bean Soup

Fasolada, or Greek White Bean Soup, is another incredibly popular Greek soup that people throughout the world enjoy. This soup does take some advanced preparation because the beans need to be soaked in water overnight, unless you are using canned white beans to make this. Our version gets most of its flavor from onions, garlic, and tomatoes. It is usually served with a splash of vinegar and sometimes garnished with fresh herbs.

Manestra – Tomato and Orzo Soup

Tomatoes grow especially well in Greece, which makes this soup a real treat when they are in season. Sure, you can use canned tomatoes to make this soup, but it just isn’t the same. For best results, find the best tomatoes you can possibly get in order to make this taste as good as it could! The magic in this soup lies in its simplicity. It just contains a handful of ingredients, and the end result is a soup that really makes the flavor of the tomatoes shine.

Margaritsa – Easter Soup

Greek household throughout the world serve this soup at Easter. It is traditional to cook a while lamb during this time of year, and this soup is a common way to use the organic meat of the lamb, such as the liver and heart. This traditional soup is considered a delicacy and is usually served after arriving home from church early on Easter morning.

Fava – Yellow Split Pea Soup

Fava is one of the simplest soups in Greek cooking and it usually only contains a few ingredients. It is a very common dish to make during lent because of its traditional, vegan ingredients. Our version uses water, yellow split peas, lemon, salt, pepper, and optional dill to garnish.

Soups are a great addition to any dinner table and can be a complete meal all on its own, especially with thick slices of Greek bread to accompany it.

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It’s a famous scene, and it goes to show you how important lamb is to the Greek culture! To celebrate this delicious food, we’ve collected some of the best lamb recipes we could find.

Here’s more information about the best Greek lamb dishes in Greek cooking:

Roasted leg of Lamb

Roasted leg of lamb is a staple at most Greek households and is present at special occasions and every day suppers alike. The nice thing about this dish is that it can feed a good sized crowd or yield plenty of leftovers. This dish is especially great served with roasted potatoes and traditional Greek salad!

Lamb on a Spit

This dish is most commonly served at Easter, but it can be made any time of the year! There’s nothing like a whole lamb, perfectly roasted on a spit, to celebrate life’s great moments. It is not only served at Easter, but also weddings, Christenings, and other festive occasions. Of course, there are no rules that say you have to wait until one of these occasions comes up to enjoy this. You can make this all year long!

Grilled Lamb Chops

Lamb chops are a simple dish, and they are also easy to make. To make this dish, you’ll want to allow plenty of tie to marinate the lamb chops in the ladolemono. Overnight is best, but you need at least a few hours. This is the perfect barbecue food and it also makes for an easy addition to a weeknight supper.

Braised Lamb Shanks

The magic of these lamb shanks is that they fall completely off the bone. Because the lamb is simmered for an hour or so, it tenderizes the meat. The juices also taste great on their own right, and you really need some rice pilaf or roasted potatoes to sop up all the flavors. This is also great with thick slices of Greek bread!

Lamb Meatballs (Keftedes)

Keftedes, or Greek meatballs, can be made with pretty much any type of ground meat that you have available. In order to make it as traditional as possible, it really is best to use ground lamb in this dish! This savory blend of meat and herbs and spices makes a great appetizer or can be served as part of the main course. You can choose any fresh herbs that you want. but spearmint and parsley are especially possible.

Ground Lamb Kebabs

This dish uses ground lamb and a savory mixture of ingredients, such as chopped onions and fresh herbs. In fact, the mixture is very similar to the lamb meatballs listed above. However, unlike the meatballs, the ground beef is formed into a much longer shape and has a skewer pierced through the middle. This makes it much easier to bake or grill it!

Lamb Souvlaki

Souvlaki is an incredibly popular dish that is served throughout Greece, often as a street food. It can be made from pretty much any meat, but lamb is extremely traditional, and some would argue that it is the tastiest. This recipe features tasty slabs of boneless lamb that has been marinated in a traditional oil and lemon dressing. There’s plenty of oregano and garlic in this recipe, too, which seem to make the lamb taste even better!

Lamb Gyros

Typically, gyros that you get as a street food are made with meat that has been rotating on a spit and then sliced fresh for each sandwich. This gyro recipe calls for lamb gyro meat, but if you can’t find any in the store you can use sliced lamb from any of these recipes, even the lamb meatballs!

There’s no shortage of great lamb dishes in Greek cuisine! Follow these recipes and you can make them at home!

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Here’s a look at some of the best Chicken recipes that Greek cuisine has to offer:

Chicken Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a method for cooking meat that involves marinating it in a Greek marinade, usually with lemon juice and olive oil, placing the cubed meat on skewers, and grilling it. The charred flavor of the chicken fresh off the grill pairs well with other Greek dishes, such as tzatziki and Greek salad (horiatiki) or other types of salads. This is perfect for warmer days when you’d rather be outside!

Greek Chicken Stew

This aromatic chicken stew contains a burst of flavors. Stewed in red wine with a variety of spices and herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and cloves, this dish is worth making if you have the time to let it stew for as long as it needs. Serve this with rice, vegetables, potatoes, salad, and other typical Greek foods. This heartier dish is especially delicious in the colder months.

Roasted Whole Chicken

There’s something so special about the sight, smell, and flavor of a whole roasted chicken. This version is particularly delicious because it includes classic Greek flavors, like lemon and Greek oregano. It is also a delicious, year round dish that produces plenty of meat. It tastes great with other Greek dishes, such as rice pilaf and Greek potatoes.

Chicken Hilopites (Noodles)

Hilopites are a special type of Greek noodle that is cut in small, square shapes. This noodle is used in a variety of Greek dishes, but one of the most popular is for Kota Hilopites, also known Chicken Hilopites. In this recipe, chicken is simmered in a sauce made of tomatoes, tomato paste, and the noodles.

Chicken Pilaf

Chicken pilaf is a classic Greek dish that is incredibly popular. Each family has its own way of making this dish, but the basic premise is that chicken is simmered in a mixture of tomato, rice, and other ingredients. Our version uses onions, tomatoes, chicken pieces, and rice at its core.

Spit Roasted Chicken

Cooking meat on an outdoor spit is a classic technique throughout Greece. It is also in practice outside of Greece amongst the diaspora. Although we typically associate this technique with lamb, it also works for chickens! The magic is to slow roast the chickens over the heat and constantly baste it with some marinade.

Chicken Kapama

Kapama is a classic Greek dish. It can be made with any meat, but this version uses chicken pieces. It starts by creating an aromatic spice rub and pan searing the chicken. The pan is then deglazed with wine or other ingredients and the chicken is simmered. Our version uses cloves, cinnamon, onion, and chicken broth to make up the bulk of its flavor.

These classic chicken dishes are a must for anyone who loves Greek chicken. They’re all delicious in their own right!

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Most of us may believe that the vegetable dishes mostly include salads, such as the classic Greek village salad that includes cucumbers and tomatoes. However, there is so much more to it than that because there are plenty of baked and braised vegetable dishes, too.

If you want to explore the vegetables of Greek cuisine, you’ll want to check out the following recipes, which represent the best the cuisine has to offer:

Vegetables in Tomato Sauce

Known as Briami, this dish is a staple on every Greek table. Although our version includes plenty of summer vegetables, it can really be made with any vegetables that are in season and that you have on hand. Whenever possible, it is a good idea to stick with what’s fresh when shopping for ingredients.

Stuffed Tomatoes

Although some versions of these Greek stuffed tomatoes include meat, they don’t have to. The recipe included here uses ripe tomatoes, rice, and plenty of herbs and other flavorings to give this dish depth. You can also use the same mixer to stuff into bell peppers.

Fried Zucchini

This dish tastes the best when you use the freshest zucchini that you can find. This also tastes delicious with summer squash, which has a similar texture as zucchini. This is one of the best treats of the summer harvest and it is something to look forward to each year.

String Beans in Tomato Sauce

Known as fasolakia, beans in tomato sauce is a delicious staple for any Greek table. Any type of green bean will work in this dish. When preparing it, you’ll want to fallow the instructions for simmering them. If you do so for too long, the beans will be too soft and may even fall apart.

Artichokes and Rice

Artichokes are commonly found throughout Greece and they make a delicious addition to any dinner table. Pairing them with rice and plenty of seasonings is a classic example of Greek cooking at its most flavorful. This dish is hearty enough to be considered a main course, or can be also eaten as a side.

Horta – Boiled Greens

Boiled greens, also known as Horta, or present at nearly every Greek dinner table. Any green that you have on hand can be used. The most common are spinach, dandelion greens, or even escarole. In Greece, you will often see people picking wild greens in order to make this dish.

Meatless Moussaka

Moussaka is one of those vegetables dishes that could easily stand on its own as a main course. This version doesn’t contain meat like some versions do, but that doesn’t make it any less hearty. It tastes especially good with other vegetable dishes, such as artichokes with rice and Greek- style boiled greens.

Okra in Tomato Sauce

Okra is a common vegetable found in Greece, which means that when they are in season, they are often found on the Greek table. Although there are a few ways to prepare it, the easiest and most common is to use fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce.

These Greek vegetables are delicious and packed with flavor. You can’t go wrong making any of them!

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Here’s a look at some of the healthiest foods that Greek cuisine has to offer:

Greek Village Salad

Although there are other types of salads that can be found in Greece, traditional Greek village salad, also known as Horiatiki, is one of the most popular. Most versions include cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta, and sometimes other ingredients, such as onions and sliced bell peppers. It is usually dressed with high quality Greek olive oil and a sprinkling of oregano.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a staple in Greek cooking. Although recipes vary throughout Greece, most versions include vegetables such s carrots and celery, lentils, and onions. Some versions include tomatoes or tomato sauce or paste, others don’t. One thing they do share is that most versions are vegan. Some people love to add a sprinkling of vinegar just before serving.

Horta Vrasta – Boiled Greens

This is one of the most common types of vegetables that could be found in a Greek meal. Boiled greens are usually made out of foraged greens, such as dandelion or amaranth (vleeta), or greens that could be found in the store, such as spinach or escarole. Most Greeks use whatever they can find!

Spanakorizo – Greek Spinach and Rice

Serving rice by itself isn’t necessarily the healthiest choice. Adding spinach to it, however, considerably boosts the nutrition content! Consider making this instead of plain rice as a side for you next meal. Some versions include tomatoes, as well, and some don’t. This goes great with just about every type of Greek main course that you could find, but especially with souvlaki, which is a way for preparing skewered meat.

Manestra – Greek Tomato Soup

Although this soup is simple to prepare and contains few ingredients, it is big on flavor! Most versions are made with tomatoes, onions, water, olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and some orzo. It doesn’t seem like much, but this is a satisfying and flavorful soup that is especially great when tomatoes are in season.

Greek Baked Fish (Plaki)

This dish is a popular way to prepare white fish. Baking the fish with ingredients like onions and tomatoes, which meld particularly well with the delicate flavors of the fish. This is an especially popular dish to serve during Lent!

Fasolakia – Greek String Beans

String beans are a popular thing to eat in Greece. This dish, where the beans are braised in tomato sauce, is one of the most popular ways to make it. Serve with rice pilaf for a light supper or with a heartier main course for a heftier meal.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a popular dish in Greece and throughout the world. The spinach in this dish boosts the health content. However, it does have a tendency to use a lot of butter. To make it even healthier, consider swapping out the butter for olive oil.

Skewered Greek Chicken

Technically speaking, souvlaki can be made with any type of meat. Chicken breast is amongst the healthiest, but you can feel free to prepare souvlaki with other meats, like lamb, pork, and beef. Since boneless chicken breast is the leanest meat of those options, it is considered to be the healthier choice.

Baked Vegetables – Briami

There are several versions of this recipe that exist, but one of the most popular ways to prepare it is to use summer vegetables. These baked vegetables are a staple food in

As you can see, there are plenty of healthy dishes in Greek cooking. You can’t go wrong with any of these!

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Greek Village Salad – Horiatiki

Horiatiki, or Greek village salad, is one of those satisfying Greek dishes that comes together quickly. Although there are other salads that are present in Greek cooking, this is by far the most common. Lettuce doesn’t grow well in Greece during the hottest months, and cucumbers and tomatoes, the main stars of this dish, are abundant. This recipe makes for a great, simple meal or snack, or as an excellent accompaniment for a larger meal. You don’t even need to take the time to use dressing in the salad. The olive oil, salt, oregano, and juices from the tomatoes give the salad plenty of flavor.

Greek Toasted Sandwiches – Tost

Tost, or toasted sandwiches, are a popular food to get in Greece. They are present at most cafes and restaurants, and make for a great, light meal or snack. You can also make these at home, and they come together very quickly. Think of this sandwich as an elevated grilled cheese. You can basically use anything that you have on hand to make this sandwich, but if you have traditional Greek ingredients at home, that’s even better!

Easy Greek Seasoned Fries

The great thing about seasoned fries is that you can use any fries that you have on hand to season them with “Greek” flavors, even frozen ones. You are also welcome to take the extra step of making the fries from scratch using the “Greek” method. However, even by not taking the extra step, you can still get them to taste “Greek” based on the flavorings that you use.

Greek-Style Baked Vegetables – Briam

Although our recipe includes suggestions for vegetables you can use, you can actually use whatever vegetables you have on hand. The main vegetables that are used include eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, onions etc. You can also use other vegetables like okra, artichokes, and even squash. The beauty of this dish is that it tastes delicious no matter what the flavor combinations are. The dish comes together in minutes, but it does

Greek Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts

Although we tend to think of a dish like this in the United States as being part of breakfast, it is actually served as a quick and easy dessert in Greece. A platter is usually spread with thick, fresh Greek yogurt and then topped with local Greek honey and walnuts. The platter is served in the center of the table, and everyone spoons some into their dish and shares it.

There are plenty of Greek dishes that are fast and easy to prepare in Greek cooking, and these are some of our favorites.

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One of the glorious gems of Greek cuisine that you won’t want to miss is the street food. Created and sold by talented cooks throughout the country, the Greeks know how to take the simplest ingredients and form them into some amazing eats.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best foods that can be purchased on the streets of Greece, but you don’t need to travel there to enjoy them. You can follow our recipes to make them at home!

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a classic Greek dish that is made all over Greece. You can use any type of meat that you want for this, but pork and lamb are two of the most common ones you’ll find in Greece. Cubes of high quality meat or poultry are marinated in a flavorful oil and lemon dressing, pierced through some skewers, and then cooked on the grill. You can buy sticks of this dish to munch on while you walk, and you can also order it in restaurants and tavernas throughout the country.

Gyros

Possibly the most beloved of the Greek street foods, gyros are a classic. These are made from special gyro meat that has been cooked on an upright spit and then shaved. Gyros are composed using gyro meat, Greek pita bread, tzatziki, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, and feta cheese. You can also opt to get them with a few Greek fries, if desired.

Greek Fries

Ask anyone who has tried these, and they will tell you that Greek fries stand out from the fries that are located in other places in the world. Like most foods in Greece, only the highest quality ingredients are used. In this case, the fries get their flavor from the fresh potatoes, high quality olive oil, and Greek sea salt. Purists believe that using authentic Greek olive oil is the one thing you can do at home to make them taste as “Greek” as possible.

Loukoumades

If you are hankering something sweet, you’ll want to give Loukoumades a try! The key to making these taste as authentic as possible is to use pure Greek olive oil and to make sure you test the heat of the oil before dropping the dough in. Be sure to top yours with authentic Greek honey and crushed walnuts to give it an extra special taste.

Koulouri

Technically speaking, Koulouri can be made from just about any type of  bread dough. In Greece, the yeast dough is formed into small rounds and often topped with sesame seeds before baking. Before yeast was commonly found in Greece, other methods of leavening were used, such as baking powder or sourdough starter. It is also a common dish served at Easter and for those, the dough is a little sweeter.

Bougatsa

Bougatsa is another delicious dessert that is commonly found throughout Greece. This holds some similarities to galaktoboureko, but bougatsa’s custard filling tends to be softer and creamier and the dessert isn’t typically doused with syrup. Rather, the top is commonly sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita, or spinach pie, is another common street food in Greece. When spinach isn’t available, other edible greens are used. Although you can make this dish in a variety of different forms, such as in a baking dish, the most common form that you’ll find on the Greek streets are the triangles.

Tiropita

This Greek classic is incredibly common in Greece. It’s served throughout the country and is one of the most popular quick grabs, especially for breakfast. Tiropita is also something that is commonly made at home. The type of cheese may differ depending on where you are in Greece, but our version contains ingredients that are easily found outside of Greece.

These foods are commonly found on the streets in Greece, but you can make them at home!

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Baklava Ice Cream Sundae

Although baklava ice cream sundaes aren’t necessarily looked as a traditional Greek dessert, they are a beloved choice all over the world, especially in the summer. In the United States, they are especially common at restaurants and at Greek festivals. People also enjoy making them at home, especially if they have a batch of baklava that just came out of the oven!

Loukoumades

For Greeks all over the world, loukoumades are a delicious summer choice. In Greece, you can often find them in cafes and restaurants. Restaurants sometimes bring them over “on the house” for dessert. They are also a staple at festivals. These aren’t always made at home, especially since it takes a bit to get the technique right.

Bougatsa

Bougatsa is a classic dessert that includes a fluffy layer of a custardy cream between sheets of flaky phyllo. It is a delicious treat, and you can often find in Greece as a street food. You can also easily make it at home. There is a trick to making the custard, but once you master it, you will be addicted.

Ekmek Kataifi

Ekmek Kataifi is also a dessert that involves a delicious cream. In this case, a fluffy, creamy custard filling is spooned over crispy kataifi dough, which has the texture of shredded wheat. This dessert is sometimes found in festivals, Greek restaurants, and you can certainly make it at home. You can find the kataifi dough in specialty shops near you, and it might be possible to even order it online.

Mastic Ice Cream

Ice cream is a treat that can be found all over Greece, even though it isn’t traditionally looked at as a Greek dessert. You can find ice cream everywhere you go, and in Greece, traditional flavors like mastic have made their way into these sweet treats. You can easily make your own version at home, too, as long as you can find the mastic. If you can’t find it locally, there are options for you to order this unique spice online.

Yogurt with Honey

Although we typically think of yogurt as a dessert food, this is something that can be used as a dessert. This traditional Greek yogurt dish is topped with Greek honey and walnuts. It is a classic, simple dessert that you can find throughout Greece, and you can easily make it at home.

These Greek desserts can be eaten year round, but they are especially delicious in the summer. You can also easily make them at home!

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Here’s a look at some of the most beloved herbs to have on hand for use in Greek cooking:

Oregano

Oregano is by far the most common of all the Greek herbs. In fact, most Greek dishes seem to use oregano! It is sprinkled on top of salads, used in soups, included in marinades for meat, and is always present at the table so you can shake on a little extra. Both the fresh and dried herb are used in this case. If you want to really make the traditional choice, try to find authentic Greek oregano to try.

Mint

Typically thought of as an herb primarily used for tea, mint is a surprising key ingredient in many top recipes. It pairs especially well with ground meat, and you will often see mint in recipes for Greek meatballs (keftedes) and stuffed grape leaves (dolmades). Some even put it in other dishes such as spanakopita (Greek spinach pie), since it also pairs very well with spinach.

Thyme

Thyme is another herb that is used a lot in Greek cooking. Often considered a stand in for oregano, it’s common to see the two herbs used interchangeably, depending on which version of a recipe you decide to follow. Besides that, thyme is long considered to be a classic herb that pairs well with poultry dishes, especially those that include chicken.

Parsley

Of this list, parsley is just about the only herb that doesn’t seem to have a place in Greek cuisine if using it dried. Even when fresh, the aroma is fairly delicate. When the herb is dried, the oils within the plant responsible for its delicate flavor evaporate quickly. Most markets sell bunches of fresh parsley, or you could grow your own plant so that you can have fresh parsley whenever you want. They do well both indoors and outdoors.

Dill

Dill is an acquired taste for many Greeks. People either love it or dislike it. For those who love it, they seem to chop it fine and put it on almost everything! For example, the fresh herb is often sprinkled on Greek salad. It also makes its way into dishes such as Greek spinach pie, also known as spanakopita. It is also a key herb that is traditionally used when picking vegetables.

Bay Leaves

Bay palm, the tree where bay leaves come from, grows very well in Greece. As a result, it is often used in Greek cooking. It is primarily included as a flavoring in soups, stews, or braised meat or vegetable dishes. It has a delicate flavor and many recipes seem to use it. If it is hard for you to find, consider using Greek oregano or thyme instead. However the flavor won’t quite be the same.

These herbs are commonly used in Greek cooking. You should consider having them on hand!

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Are you wondering what to serve for food at Greek wedding? Here are some of our favorite choices:

Spit Roasted Lamb

No dish signifies a Greek party better than lamb does, especially when it is roasted on a spit. The lamb is usually placed on the spit early in the morning. By the time the ceremony is over, the lamb is roasted to perfection. Our recipe uses a flavorful marinade of olive oil and lemon and is roasted for hours over a steady heat.

Spit Roasted Chicken

Don’t want to serve lamb at your wedding? Consider cooking a bunch of chickens on a spit! This makes a festive choice for those who either don’t want to serve lamb, which can be heavier, or that want to supplement the land with something else. If your wedding guest is large, you would need a lot of spits to make enough chickens to feed the crowd!

Meatball Soup

The Italian version of this dish is dubbed “Italian Wedding Soup”. This is a delicious starter choice for Greek weddings, as well. Meatball soup is made with a flavorful broth, Greek style meatballs, and is finished with a light avgolemono (egg and lemon) sauce.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita, also known as spinach pita, is one of the most popular dishes to serve at a Greek wedding and makes an excellent addition to the main course as well as a nice starter course. The great thing about this is that one recipe yields a high amount of pieces, so you wouldn’t have a hard time making enough to feed all the wedding guests.

Tiropita

Tiropita, known as cheese pita, is almost as popular as spanakopita and is a fairly decadent choice. In this recipe, a mixture of cheeses, eggs, and herbs and spices are mixed together and surrounded by layers of buttery fillo. To please the wedding guests even more, consider offering both spanakopita and tiropita as part of the spread.

Stuffed Grape Leaves

Stuffed grape leaves, also known as dolmades, are a great food to serve during a wedding. These tasty little rolls are time consuming to make, and most people know it! Besides the fact that they are delicious, people will respect their presence on the table because most Greeks know what goes into making them. These make an excellent main course, side dish, or even as part of an appetizer or meze spread.

Baklava

Baklava I sone of the most popular of all the Greek desserts and should be part of every Greek wedding. Most recipes use a mixture of nuts, sugar, and spices. This mixture is then surrounded by layers of flaky, buttery fillo. The dessert is finished off by a sweet honey and sugar syrup. It is the perfect dessert for a special occasion!

Kourabedies

Kourabedies are the classic celebration cookie. Buttery shortbread cookies are finished with an ample dusting of confectioners’ sugar. No wedding would be complete without them!

No matter what kind of wedding you are having, you will find that these dishes are definite crowd pleasers. Consider serving these them at your wedding!

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Eating can be a challenge during this time, especially since many of our favorite foods aren’t allowed, such as meat. For more information on exactly how you should fast, you’ll want to consult with your priest. These recipes should pass most standards and are some of our favorites!

Stuffed Grape Leaves 

Stuffed grape leaves are a favorite food more most Greeks, but they usually contain ground meat, such as lamb, which is mixed in with the rice. In order to make them friendly for lent, you need to eliminate the meat. However, it isn’t enough to just follow your regular recipe. When you get rid of the meat, you need to add other flavorful ingredients that are acceptable while fasting. This recipe delivers.

Gigantes Plaki

Gigantes are a plump, hearty legume that is common in Greek cuisine. This dish features gigantes beans mixed with spices and tomato sauce. This dish is a great addition to any lenten meal, especially since it is a good source of protein.

Lentil Rice Pilaf

Lentils are another popular ingredient that is used during fasting time periods. It is naturally present in every day Greek cuisine, but the high protein, low calorie nature of this legume makes foods that contain it perfectly suited for lent. This dish features rice, lentils, and other vegetables and it makes for a great main course while fasting.

Greek Baked Vegetables

These baked vegetables are a staple all year, but they are especially ignorant during Lent. Recipes differ, but our version features popular Greek vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes. The flavors are rich and healthy and this makes an excellent side dish. You can also mix in a can of navy beans that have been drained and rinsed into the recipe to give this dish a boost of protein.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is hearty and satisfying. It is also completely vegan, which makes it a very popular choice during Lent. It has everything – a protein source, vegetables, and delicious flavors that are traditionally Greek. This is great as part of a larger meal or can even stand on its own for a light supper.

Horta (Boiled Greens)

Boiled greens, also referred to as horta, is a popular food in Greece all year long. However, they are especially popular during Lent because this dish doesn’t contain any meat. You can use any greens that you have available, such as escarole, spinach, or dandelion greens.

Orzo in Tomato Sauce

This orzo gets most of its flavor from tomato sauce. Because there is no meat in it, this is a great dish to eat during Lent. It pairs especially well with the briami recipe that is featured above.

Halva

Halva is looked at as a Lent-friendly food, especially since it doesn’t contain any oil, which some people avoid. This is a great choice for those who want to eat something a little sweet while they are fasting. It is also still very nutritious, thanks to the ingredients.

These are our top favorite recipes that you can eat during Great and Holy Lent and during other fasting periods throughout the year. You may notice there is no seafood listed here and this is because some people don’t even eat seafood during Lent. If you have any questions about how you should fast, you should ask your priest.  Visit this page for more ideas as to recipes that you can eat when you fast.

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As a result of this, they’ve made their way into some of the desserts. Here’s a look at some of the best dessert recipes that you should prepare in the fall. They taste especially great at this time of year:

Baklava – Traditional Phyllo and Nut Dessert

In terms of Greek desserts, baklava is about as traditional as it gets. This is a classic dessert, and one that is enjoyed all year long. The nuts used in this are picked when they are ready, and they store extremely well, making them available year round. However, they seem to taste best right after they are picked. This is when the baklava tastes the best.

Milopita – Greek Apple Cake

It wouldn’t be fall without apples! This is a universal truth all over the world, wherever apples are grown. In Greece, apples do well in some of the climates, especially in higher elevations on islands like Crete where there are a lot of mountains. This apple cake is one of the most common apple-based desserts found in Greek cuisine.

Greek Style Baked Apples 

If you want a simple dessert that can be whipped up in minutes, consider making this Greek-style baked apple recipe. This is also a common way to eat apples for dessert in Greece, and if you use traditional Greek flavors, like ouzo spirit, cinnamon, and cloves, then it will taste especially delicious.

Karidopita – Greek Walnut Cake

As mentioned above, walnuts are in season in the fall. This walnut cake is a popular way to prepare them. Unlike baklava, which includes chunks of walnuts, this cake is made from the finely ground walnuts so that they can form a type of flour. The end result is a cake that has an interesting texture that pairs well with the honey syrup it is typically finished with. Use the freshest walnuts you can find for best results!

Pasta Flora – Greek Jam Tart 

Throughout the growing season, you may have been busy making jams from the various in-season fruits. Pasta Flora, which seems a bit more French than Greek, is actually a popular dessert in Greece and offers a way to use all these delicious preserves. It’s also a crowd pleaser since everyone seems to love a good fruit tart!

Greek Style Pita with Squash or Pumpkin

Squash, such as butternut squash and pumpkins, are also popular at this time of year. This delicious, flaky phyllo dessert offers a way to use this harvest crop. To the American pallet, it might taste a bit like pumpkin pie, but within layers of crispy phyllo dough.

As you can see, you can’t go wrong with any of these desserts. Although you can easily cook them year round, they taste especially great in the fall.

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Either way, these brands all offer feta cheese as part of their product lines, whether officially recognized feta, or a “feta-inspired” cheese. Feta is an important cheese to Greek cuisine. It is an instrumental ingredient in “Greek Village Salad”, some versions of tiropita (Greek cheese pie), and plenty of other dishes.

When looking for the right feta cheese, it can be hard to find a brand. In some areas, you may not have a lot of choices. However, chances are pretty good that you will be able to find feta cheese no matter where you live. Are you interested in knowing which brands you can choose from when buying feta cheese? Here are some top brands of feta cheese. Note that some of them use PDO standards and some don’t:

Athenos

Athenos is a brand that has been inspired by key dishes in Greek cuisine, and Feta Cheese is one of them. On the About page, they indicate that they have “respect for the ingredients” that they use, and have been doing so for the last twenty years. Besides feta cheese (and they do have other flavors), they have a collection of other products, such as various flavors of hummus, different flavors of pita chips, and other cheeses.

Belfiore

Belfiore is not a specifically Greek brand – they specialize in creating 100% natural products that are free from preservatives, and feta cheese is one of their offerings. According to their website, their feta cheese is listed as “Mediterranean Style”, 100% organic, contains probiotic cultures, is gluten free, artisanal, and award winning. The company is based in Berkeley, California.

Boar’s Head

Boar’s Head is a company that offers premium deli meats and cheeses. In fact, you might associate them more strongly with deli meats, and may not even realize that they have their own feta cheese. They have two types of feta – a creamy style feta and one that is easier to crumble. The one you choose will all depend on what you plan to do with it. Crumbled feta is great for salads, the creamy salad would work in baking and cooking, such as if you were making tiro pita (Greek Feta and cheese pie).

Dodoni

According to the company website, Dodoni Feta is actually created in Epirus, Greece, and therefore follows the Protected Designation of Origin standards set by the EU (Feta received this certification in 2002). According to the company website, the landscape of Epirus, including the bountiful vegetation, gives its feta cheese a unique character. They ship their feta cheese to fifty different countries and have a presence in the United States.

Greco

Greco feta cheese is also made by PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) standards, meaning it needs to be made from sheep milk and no more than 30% goat milk. This particular cheese is made from sheep and goat milk from dairies in Thessaly, Greece. The company has both a barrel aged feta and one that comes in brine.  The brand that runs the Greco label (Karoun) also has a feta-style cheese named Helena that is made from cow’s milk from California.

Kourellas

Kourellas has been making Greek feta cheese using traditional methods since 1996. Their feta cheese is made according to PDO standards (Protected Designation of Origin), which means that it is 100% traditional. This cheese is either made with sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep milk and no more than 30% goat milk. The company offers traditional feta, feta in different flavors (like tomato and oregano), traditional Greek yogurt, and other cheeses.

Mevgal

Mevgal also makes a feta cheese using PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) standards and using traditional methods. The cheese is described as having a rich taste, natural white color and distinct aroma, and has matured for at least three months. The company also has other products, such as yogurt and other cheeses. The company was founded in 1950 in Greece and has partnerships with over 650 local farms that provide the milk for their products.

Mt Vikos

Mt Vikos is a feta cheese that is made in Greece, which means that it is made using PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) standards. The company only uses the freshest, most natural ingredients when making their cheeses. The products are also GMO free. In addition to feta cheese, they also have other Greek-inspired products, such as Kalamata olive spread, red pepper and feta spread, and they also offer bulk feta cheese for deli counters and food serves.

Organic Valley

Organic Valley is a natural brand of products, of which feta cheese is one of them, that has been owned by farmers since 1988. They have a feta-style cheese that are made using traditional methods, but is actually made from cow’s milk. The company has crumbled feta-style cheese and also feta-style cheese that comes in chunks. The cheeses are all organic and made from pasture raised cows. They also have there dairy products, like milk, butter, eggs, meat, ground beef, and other cheeses.

President

The President brand has a feta-style cheese that is made using traditional methods. They specialize in offering Président® Feta Crumbles, which come pre-crumbled for convenience. The cheese is great in salads and other recipes. You can use this crumbled feta the same way that you can use other feta cheeses. It is not a traditional feta made to PDO standards because it is made with cow’s milk.

365 Whole Foods

Did you know that Whole Foods markets have their own feta cheese? According to the website, this block cheese is packed in brand and sold under the “365” label that Whole Foods has. This cheese was not created using PDO standards. However, it was made

As you can see, there are a lot of choices when it comes to finding feta cheese. Besides finding feta cheese under these brands, you can also usually find this cheese in delis and at specialty Greek shops. Sometimes, you may not be able to tell which brand it is. Some of these delis and specialty shops may either offer some of the above brands as part of their bulk series, or they may have access to their own sources. Feta is fairly common cheese throughout the United States, and even throughout the world, so finding it when you need it is usually possible, no matter where you live. It’s all about finding the right cheese that suits your needs.

ABOUT THIS LIST:
The list above was researched by the GreekBoston.com team and is updated for 2022-2023.  This article is not a paid advertisement and we do not accept any payment to be included on this list.  If you feel we should add any additional resources and brands, please email greekboston@worldwidegreeks.com and the GreekBoston.com editorial team will make adjustments on an annual basis as necessary.  Thanks for supporting GreekBoston.com!

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These dishes are all simple and delicious and use ingredients that are readily available. Many of these foods are considered to be “comfort foods” amongst many Greeks. Here’s a look at some of the best Lathera dishes, or olive oil dishes, in Greek cuisine:

Baked Vegetables – Briami

This dish is a staple in most Greek households. Made from a variety of fresh vegetables and finished with olive oil, this dish is at its tastiest when you use the freshest vegetables possible. You can use any type of vegetables that you want in this dish, such as onions, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, et cetera. Our version uses all of these vegetables, but you don’t need to. You can use whatever you have on hand.

Braised Green Beans – Fasolakia

Fasolakia is another staple dish that is found on the Greek dinner table, especially when green beans are in season. Our version uses olive oil, green beans, onions, and fresh tomatoes. However, some omit the tomatoes, especially if they aren’t available. You can easily use tomato paste or tomato sauce as a substitute if you don’t have access to ripe tomatoes.

 Spinach and Rice – Spanakorizo

Outside of Greece, spinach is readily available so most versions of this dish are referred to as “Spanakorizo”. However, in Greece, the most common name for it is “Hortorizo” because Greeks tend to use whichever sweet and tender greens are available, such as spinach, dandelion greens, escarole, et cetera. Horta is the greek word for “greens”. This simple dish is made with rice, olive oil, greens, and onions and makes for a delicious accompaniment

Braised Greens – Horta

Although these greens are usually steamed or braised, they are finished with plenty of olive oil. This is another staple of Greek cuisine, and these greens are readily available. In Greece, the types of greens that are in this dish depends on what people can find. Typical greens include dandelion, spinach, amaranth (vlita), lamb’s quarters (levethies), and others. It is always finished with copious amounts of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Semolina Dessert – Halva

Halva is one of those desserts that uses copious amounts of olive oil. It is simple to prepare, but is also rich in flavor. It sets up almost like a pudding, but the end result is a dish that is sweet and filled with flavor. It tastes great with Greek coffee and is a nice finisher to any meal! It also makes for a great snack.

Cretan Spice Cookies 

While on the island of Crete, you will no doubt find these cookies. Typically, they are heavily spiced and are a nice treat with Greek coffee. The olive oil gives these cookies an interesting texture, and once you take your first taste, it will be hard to stop at just one. They are also referred to as koulourakia lathiou.

Olive oil is present in many Greek dishes, but these choices represent some of the best that the cuisine has to offer.

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All About Corn on the Cob Street Food

This staple of Greek street cuisine is an icon of the summer season and is nothing more than corn that has not been shucked and given a good blast of heat to get a minor char and then sprinkled with sea salt. However, for many, this very simple food is considered a treat and a delicacy and defines the summers in Greece.

The taste of properly grilled corn on the cob is a blend of smoke, salt, melted butter and the innate flavor you would expect from whole kernels of corn. The grill gives the corn a nice char, and the simplicity of the salt and butter make it extra delicious.

In terms of enjoying it in Greece, corn is a crop of the New World. This status means that corn’s culinary applications would not be appreciated by the Greeks until after Columbus’ discovery of the Americas in 1492. Only after then could the Greeks acquire corn.

Making Grilled Corn on the Cob at Home

Do you want to enjoy the flavor of this corn once you leave Greece? It’s pretty simple to do, as long as you have a grill, but don’t be surprised if it doesn’t taste quite the same. Here’s a look at how you can make your own grilled corn on the cob, just like it is served in Greece, no matter where you rein the world.

1. Peel off the green leaves.
2. Rub the crop with olive oil or butter.
3. Light up a charcoal grill, making sure that your coals are blazing hot before cooking. Charcoal is crucial to giving your corn a good smokiness.
4. Give the corn cobs anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes of cooking time while keeping the heat on high.
5. Serve with butter and sea salt.

If 10-15 minutes seems like too much time to sit around waiting, some speed-minded cooks have come up with a shortcut. If you want to produce a finished product in the quickest time possible, the trick is to boil the corn cobs for a full 60 seconds prior to placing them on the grill.

While people tend to think of various forms of meat when it comes to street food, especially Greek street food, it turns out that there are options for people looking for something light, healthy or agreeable with a vegetarian or vegan palate. The best thing about grilled corn on the cob is that it is so easy to make you can prep a few batches in your own home.

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