Cuisine

Greek cuisine

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, often featuring seafood, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include moussaka (a layered dish with eggplant and ground meat), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and spanakopita (a spinach and feta cheese pastry). Greek cuisine also features a variety of cheeses, such as feta and kasseri. Bread is a staple of Greek cuisine, with pita being a popular choice. Greek desserts often feature honey and nuts.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine

Fresh, Flavorful, Tangy, Salty

Grilling, Roasting, Baking, Frying, Sautéing

Typical ingredients

Seafood (such as octopus, squid, shrimp), Beef, Lamb, Pork, Onions, Garlic, Peppers, Tomatoes, Eggplant, Zucchini, Spinach, Feta cheese, Olives, Olive oil, Bread, Honey, Nuts

Presentation and garnishing

Greek dishes are often served family-style, with large platters of meat and vegetables. Garnishes may include fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and olives. Spanakopita and other pastries may be served with a side of tzatziki sauce.

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, and is often made with locally sourced ingredients. The country is also known for its olive oil and wine, with many local varieties available.

More cuisines from this region...

Cretan cuisine, Macedonian cuisine (Greek), Epirotic cuisine, Cuisine of the Ionian Islands

History

Greek cuisine has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece. The cuisine has been influenced by Turkish, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisine, as well as Mediterranean influences. Greek cuisine has also been shaped by the country's geography, with coastal regions favoring seafood dishes and inland regions featuring more meat-based dishes.

Cultural significance

Greek cuisine is an important part of the country's cultural heritage, and is often served at family gatherings and celebrations. The cuisine is also popular in neighboring countries, such as Turkey and Italy. Greek coffee is a traditional drink that is often served with dessert.

Health benefits and considerations

Greek cuisine is generally high in protein and carbohydrates, and may be high in fat depending on the dish. Some traditional dishes may be high in sodium. Greek cuisine also features a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, such as stuffed peppers and eggplant dishes.

Greek cuisine dishes Browse all »

Tiropita

Tiropita is a Greek savory pastry filled with a mixture of feta cheese and eggs.

Chtapodi sti schara

Grilled Octopus

Chtapodi sti schara, also known as grilled octopus, is a popular Greek dish that is perfect for summer barbecues. The dish is made with tender octopus that is marinated in...

Saganaki

Fried cheese

Saganaki is a delicious Greek appetizer that is made with fried cheese. It is a popular dish in Greek restaurants and is often served with pita bread and lemon wedges.

Kolokithakia tiganita

Fried Zucchini

Kolokithakia tiganita is a traditional Greek dish made with fried zucchini. It is typically served as a side dish or meze.

Loukoumi geroskipou

Loukoumi geroskipou is a traditional Cypriot sweet that is made from starch and sugar. It is a soft, chewy candy that is often flavored with rosewater or lemon juice. The candy...

Fasolakia

Green Beans Stew

Fasolakia is a Greek dish made with green beans and tomatoes.

Macaroni béchamel

Macaroni Bechamel

Macaroni béchamel is a classic pasta dish that originated in France. It is a rich and creamy dish that is perfect for a special occasion.

Kalamarakia tiganita

Fried Calamari

Kalamarakia tiganita, or fried calamari, is a popular Greek dish that is enjoyed all over the world. It is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion.