Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean with these 18 delicious and authentic Greek recipes. From hearty meat dishes to refreshing salads, and from sweet treats to savory snacks, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, these traditional Greek recipes are sure to impress.
Let’s start with some classic comfort food: Moussaka, with its layers of eggplant and spiced meat, is a staple of Greek cuisine. And no meal is complete without a side of Spanakopita, crispy phyllo wrapped around a spinach filling that’s simply divine. But Greek cooking isn’t just about the main courses – souvlaki, those tender marinated pork skewers, make for a perfect snack or light lunch.
And then there are the dips… Tzatziki, with its creamy yogurt and fresh cucumber, is a refreshing twist on traditional hummus. And Dolmades, stuffed grape leaves filled with herbed rice, are the perfect finger food. But Greek cuisine has so much more to offer than just these few favorites…
Moussaka with layers of eggplant and spiced meat
Moussaka is a beloved Greek dish that combines tender eggplant slices with rich spiced meat and creamy bechamel sauce. This recipe yields a flavorful and satisfying main course perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and black pepper
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Assemble the moussaka by layering eggplant, meat mixture, and tomato sauce in a baking dish. Top with bechamel sauce and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanakopita with crispy phyllo and spinach filling
This classic Greek dish is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, featuring crispy phyllo pastry filled with a savory spinach and feta cheese mixture. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this spanakopita recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, onion, garlic, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Layer phyllo dough in a baking dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
5. Spoon the spinach mixture onto the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold edges over filling to form a seal, then brush top with olive oil.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Souvlaki with tender marinated pork skewers
Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering souvlaki recipe featuring tender marinated pork skewers, served with a side of crispy pita bread and tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Pita bread and tzatziki sauce (recipe not included) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the pork cubes to the marinade, mixing well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread 4-5 marinated pork cubes onto each skewer.
4. Grill the souvlaki for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tzatziki with creamy yogurt and fresh cucumber
Cool down with a refreshing glass of Tzatziki, featuring creamy yogurt and crisp cucumber. This classic Greek condiment is perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between bites.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow excess water to release.
2. Squeeze out as much liquid from the cucumber as possible using a paper towel or clean cloth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and dill until smooth.
4. Add the drained cucumber to the yogurt mixture and stir well.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing condiment is ready in just 15 minutes.
Dolmades with grape leaves and herbed rice
A classic Turkish delight! These stuffed grape leaves, filled with a flavorful mix of rice, herbs, and spices, are wrapped in tender grape leaves and simmered to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Prepare the grape leaves by blanching them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Then, submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped parsley, dill, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the dolma up tightly.
5. Repeat with the remaining grape leaves and filling.
6. In a large pot, combine 2 cups water and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the grape leaves are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastitsio with baked pasta and rich béchamel
This beloved Greek dish combines al dente pasta, rich béchamel sauce, and savory ground beef for a satisfying meal. With its creamy sauce and golden-brown topping, Pastitsio is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or macaroni)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup béchamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and béchamel sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
Combine butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan; whisk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Horiatiki with juicy tomatoes and tangy feta
Horiatiki is a classic Greek salad that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines the sweetness of juicy tomatoes, the tanginess of crumbly feta cheese, and the crunch of fresh cucumbers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large, ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Squeeze the red wine vinegar over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is best served fresh.
Gemista with stuffed tomatoes and bell peppers
Gemista: Stuffed Tomatoes and Bell Peppers Recipe
Summary: A flavorful Greek-inspired dish featuring roasted tomatoes and bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 2 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and bell peppers, removing any seeds or membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
4. Stuff each tomato and bell pepper with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four vegetables.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes and bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fasolada with hearty white beans and vegetables
Fasolada, a traditional Greek dish, is a flavorful and nutritious meal made with white beans, vegetables, and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for a comforting and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy), soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the white beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the tomatoes, bell pepper, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Keftedes with flavorful Greek meatballs
This classic Greek recipe yields tender, flavorful meatballs that are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the tops of the meatballs with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with feta cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baklava with honey-drenched layers of phyllo
This classic Middle Eastern dessert is a perfect blend of crispy phyllo, nutty filling, and sweet honey. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this delectable treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with honey, until you have 6-8 layers.
5. Place half of the walnut mixture on top of the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 to create another layer.
7. Cut into diamond-shaped pieces and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Galaktoboureko with custard-filled pastry
This classic Greek dessert is a must-try, featuring flaky phyllo pastry filled with a creamy custard and topped with a sweet syrup. With its rich flavors and textures, Galaktoboureko is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut into squares.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
4. Layer phyllo squares with melted butter, ending with a square on top.
5. Whisk eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
6. Pour custard mixture onto the pastry layers.
7. Roll up the pastry and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Let cool before serving with a drizzle of sweet syrup.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loukoumades with golden fried dough balls
Golden Fried Loukoumades Recipe
These crispy and sweet loukoumades are a classic Greek treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at parties. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these mouthwatering fried dough balls in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Fry the dough balls in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the loukoumades from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Revani with syrup-soaked semolina cake
Revani with Syrup-Soaked Semolina Cake: A Classic Greek Dessert
Revani, also known as semolina cake, is a beloved dessert in Greece and the Middle East. This moist and flavorful cake is soaked in a sweet syrup, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Syrup (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, and oil. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Syrup:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Combine sugar, water, and rose water (if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until syrupy. Pour warm syrup over the cooled cake.
Koulourakia with buttery twisted cookies
Koulourakia with Buttery Twisted Cookies Recipe
Summary: These traditional Greek cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of butter and sugar with the richness of orange zest. This recipe yields tender, twisted cookies perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla extract, and salt; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in orange zest.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or simply twist into strips.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Tiropita with flaky cheese-filled pastry
Tiropita, a classic Greek savory pastry, is a delightful combination of flaky phyllo and melted cheese. This simple recipe yields a delicious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing phyllo)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta and Parmesan cheese.
4. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush with beaten egg.
5. Place a tablespoon of the cheese mixture in the center of the phyllo.
6. Fold the phyllo into a triangle or square shape, making sure to enclose the filling.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until all ingredients are used up.
8. Place tiropita on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kleftiko with slow-cooked lamb and herbs
This classic Greek recipe for Kleftiko is a hearty and aromatic slow-cooked lamb dish, infused with the flavors of oregano, thyme, and lemon. Perfect for a comforting Sunday lunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 kg lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, lemon slices, and chopped onion.
3. Add the lamb shoulder to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Place the lamb in a large Dutch oven or heavy-based pot with a lid.
5. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
6. If using white wine, pour it over the lamb during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Melitzanosalata with smoky roasted eggplant dip
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious smoky roasted eggplant dip, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of eggplants with the depth of smoked paprika.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the eggplants are tender and charred.
5. Let cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh and blend in a food processor until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of Greece with these 18 traditional recipes! From savory dishes like Moussaka and Souvlaki to sweet treats like Baklava and Loukoumades, this collection has something for everyone. Discover classic favorites like Spanakopita, Tzatziki, and Dolmades, as well as comforting staples like Fasolada and Gemista. These authentic recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast. Try making one (or two, or three…) today!
