When it comes to cooking, few cuisines are as rich and flavorful as Greek cuisine. With its long history of Mediterranean diet and love for fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil, Greece has given us a plethora of delicious and authentic recipes that never fail to impress. From classic dishes like moussaka and spanakopita to savory lamb souvlaki and sweet baklava, the world of Greek cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be discovered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 authentic Greek recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for hearty stews, crispy appetizers, or refreshing salads, we’ve got you covered with our selection of mouthwatering Greek dishes. So sit back, relax, and get ready to transport yourself to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast with these 20 scrumptious recipes!
Moussaka with Béchamel Sauce
Classic Moussaka with Béchamel Sauce Recipe
Moussaka is a beloved Greek dish that layers tender eggplant slices with rich meat sauce and creamy béchamel. This recipe combines the flavors of Greece and France for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup Béchamel sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the eggplant slices in boiling salted water for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb or beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, tomato puree, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Layer the eggplant, meat sauce, and Béchamel sauce in that order, finishing with a layer of béchamel on top.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the béchamel and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
Combine 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and 1 cup milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and add 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
Homemade Greek Gyros with Tzatziki
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these mouthwatering homemade gyros, served with a refreshing side of creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
For the gyros:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
For the tzatziki sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb or beef, onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill the gyros for about 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki sauce by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
6. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
7. Assemble gyros by placing a cooked patty on each pita bread, then topping with tzatziki sauce and any desired toppings (such as tomato, onion, and feta cheese).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Traditional Greek Spanakopita
Spanakopita, a classic Greek savory pastry, is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs to create a delicious and satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of filo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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. In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Mix well to combine.
4. Layer filo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each layer with olive oil.
5. Spoon the spinach mixture onto the last layer of filo, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the edges over the filling and brush with egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Greek Lamb Souvlaki
This recipe combines the tender flavors of lamb with a rich, herby aroma, perfect for a cozy evening meal. Slow-cooked souvlaki is an effortless way to cook this popular street food dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the lamb cubes and toss to coat evenly.
3. Place the lamb mixture in the slow cooker. If using wine and broth, pour them over the lamb.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot with warm pita bread, salad, and your favorite tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Authentic Greek Dolmades
Authentic Greek Dolmades Recipe
Dolmades are a classic Greek dish that’s both flavorful and beautiful. This recipe showcases the traditional way of preparing these delicious stuffed grape leaves, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 20-24 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, parsley, dill, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface, with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the dolma into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the dolmades for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown.
6. Transfer the dolmades to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Greek Baklava
A timeless Mediterranean treat, Classic Greek Baklava combines crispy phyllo dough, sweet honey, and nutty flavors to create a delightful dessert. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, mix together walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves.
4. Layer phyllo dough and walnut mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top layer of phyllo.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before drizzling with honey.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Greek Horiatiki Salad
A classic Greek salad that’s perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Mediterranean dishes. This simple recipe brings together the freshest ingredients to create a flavorful and nutritious salad.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens ( Romaine, arugula, and/or spinach)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp. red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold salad.
Fluffy Greek Loukoumades
These sweet treats are a classic Greek dessert that will transport you to the Mediterranean with their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Honey and cinnamon for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
7. Fry the loukoumades for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
8. Remove the loukoumades from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Serve warm drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Greek Fava Dip
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this creamy fava dip, perfect for snacking or serving alongside pita bread and crudités. This simple yet satisfying recipe combines yellow split peas with garlic, lemon, and olive oil to create a deliciously addictive spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas (fava)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fava beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the fava beans again. In a blender or food processor, combine the drained fava beans, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
5. If desired, stir in Greek yogurt for an extra creamy texture.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (prepared dip)
Herbed Greek Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, infused with the brightness of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread potato mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. If using feta cheese, sprinkle on top of potatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Greek Octopus
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this simple yet impressive grilled octopus recipe. With a flavorful marinade and a nice char, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large octopus, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add the octopus pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove octopus from marinade and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it develops a nice char and is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of oregano.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tangy Greek Tzatziki Sauce
Elevate your Mediterranean-inspired dishes with this refreshing and tangy tzatziki sauce, made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. Perfect for dipping pita bread or serving as a side to grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow excess water to be released.
2. Squeeze the cucumber mixture gently to remove any remaining liquid. Discard the liquid.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Add the drained cucumber mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! This sauce is best served chilled.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these flavorful Greek-inspired chicken souvlaki skewers, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or impressive party appetizer. Tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and tangy tzatziki sauce come together in a deliciously authentic bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Greek Stuffed Tomatoes (Domates Gemistes)
Savor the sweet flavor of summer with this classic Greek recipe, where juicy tomatoes are filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, parsley, feta cheese, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken
Bring the flavors of Greece to your table with this aromatic roast chicken recipe, infused with bright lemon and pungent garlic notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlicky Greek Shrimp Saganaki
Saganaki is a classic Greek appetizer that typically features grilled cheese and tomato. Here, we’ve added succulent shrimp and a pungent garlic sauce to give it a bold twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the feta cheese, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the garlic-feta mixture.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Greek Diples
Sweet Greek Diples: A Classic Pastry Delight
Diples are a traditional Greek pastry that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. These sweet, crispy pastries are flavored with honey and filled with a delicious mixture of nuts and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small pieces and shape each piece into a thin sheet.
5. Brush the sheets with oil, then drizzle with honey and sprinkle with nuts, cinnamon, and cardamom.
6. Roll up the sheets tightly and cut into 1-inch thick strips.
7. Fry the diples in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Crispy Greek Tiropita
Crispy Greek Tiropita Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Classic!
Greek Lentil Soup (Fakes)
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of Greek cuisine, made with red lentils, aromatic spices, and a touch of lemon. Serve with a swirl of olive oil and a side of crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the water or broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, with a squeeze of lemon juice and a dollop of olive oil.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Greek Honey Custard Pie (Galaktoboureko)
This traditional Greek dessert is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor, featuring a flaky phyllo crust filled with a creamy honey custard. Perfect for warm weather, this pie is a refreshing treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, honey, and salt.
4. Add heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
5. Layer phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
6. Pour custard mixture over the phyllo layers.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
8. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the authentic flavors of Greece with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic dishes like moussaka and spanakopita, to savory souvlaki and juicy octopus, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy homemade gyros and tzatziki sauce, or try your hand at making traditional dolmades and baklava. Satisfy your sweet tooth with galaktoboureko and diples, or go green with a fresh horiatiki salad. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes will transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Greece.