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 »

Topoi

Topoi is a traditional Greek dish that is typically served as a snack or appetizer. It is made from phyllo dough and filled with feta cheese and spinach.

Melintzanopita

Melintzanopita is a traditional Greek dish that is made with eggplant and phyllo pastry. It is a savory pie that is typically served as a main course or as an appetizer.

Hortopita

Hortopita is a traditional Greek savory pie made with wild greens and phyllo pastry. It is a popular dish in Greece and is often served as a main course.

Pastitsada

Pastitsada is a traditional Greek dish that is made with beef, pasta, and a spicy tomato sauce. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter days.

Dakos

Greek Salad with Bread

Dakos is a traditional Greek dish made with barley rusk, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olive oil. It is typically served as an appetizer or side dish.

Lalagites

Lalagites are a traditional Greek dessert or snack made with phyllo dough and a sweet cheese filling.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki dip

Tzatziki is a Greek dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It is a refreshing and flavorful dip that is perfect for parties and gatherings.