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 »

Portokalopita

Orange Cake

Portokalopita is a traditional Greek dessert that is made with phyllo dough, oranges, and honey. It is a sweet and tangy dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Magiritsa

Easter soup made with lamb offal

Magiritsa is a traditional Greek soup made from lamb offal, vegetables, and herbs. It is typically served on Easter Sunday and is a staple of the Greek Easter feast.

Melopita

Honey Pie

Melopita is a traditional Greek dessert that's made with honey and cheese. It's a sweet and tangy treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Stifado

Stifado is a traditional Greek stew made with beef or rabbit, onions, and tomatoes. It is typically served with rice or potatoes.

Fasolakia

Green Beans Stew

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

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.

Roxakia

Roxakia are a traditional Greek pastry that are often served during the Christmas season. They are a sweet and crunchy pastry that is perfect for any occasion.

Zoumero

Zoumero is a traditional Greek soup that is made with lentils and vegetables. It is a hearty and nutritious soup that is perfect for cold winter nights.