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 »

Sofigado

Sofigado is a traditional Greek dish that is perfect for a special occasion. It is a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Kόkoras krasάtos

Rooster in red sauce

Kόkoras krasάtos is a traditional Greek dish made with rooster and red wine. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions.

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.

Vasilopita

Vasilopita is a traditional Greek cake that is typically served on New Year's Day. It is a sweet and flavorful cake that is often made with a variety of ingredients, including...

Rizogalo

Rice pudding

Rizogalo is a traditional Greek dessert made from rice, milk, and sugar. It is a creamy and comforting dessert that is perfect for cold nights.

Avgolemono

Egg and lemon soup

Avgolemono is a Greek soup made with chicken, rice, and lemon. It is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Diples

Diples is a traditional Greek dessert that is commonly served during special occasions such as weddings and baptisms. It is a fried pastry that is drizzled with honey and...

Pasteli

Pasteli is a traditional Greek candy that is made with sesame seeds and honey. It is typically made by toasting sesame seeds and then mixing them with honey before shaping the...