Getting ready to embark on a culinary journey through Greece? Look no further! With its rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources, Greek cuisine offers a world of flavors and textures that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki to modern twists on traditional recipes, this list of 20 delicious Greek recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic tour of Greece, highlighting some of the country’s most beloved and accessible recipes. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals or special occasion dishes, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad is a staple of Greek cuisine, featuring crisp vegetables, salty feta cheese, and briny olives. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Greek Lemon Chicken
Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Recipe
Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful Easy Greek Lemon Chicken recipe! Marinated in a zesty mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano, chicken breasts are then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 lemons, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of oregano.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Yogurt with Honey and Walnuts
This classic combination of creamy Greek yogurt, drizzled with warm honey and topped with crunchy walnuts is a simple yet satisfying snack or dessert. With only a few ingredients and no cooking required, this recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
2. Drizzle the warm honey over the yogurt mixture, stirring gently to create a smooth consistency.
3. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top of the yogurt mixture.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required
This recipe makes 1 serving. You can easily double or triple the ingredients for a larger crowd.
Quick Greek Spanakopita
This classic Greek spinach pie gets a speed boost with this simplified recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox treat. With just a few ingredients and simple prep, you’ll have a delicious, flaky pastry in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta, parsley, olive oil, onion, and egg. Mix well.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Fill the pie crust with the spinach mixture and smooth out.
5. Fold the edges of the pie crust over the filling to create a crusty border.
6. Brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek-Style Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of olive oil, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a base for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add the potato wedges to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
7. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Greek Tzatziki Sauce
A refreshing and tangy condiment that’s perfect for topping gyro sandwiches, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow excess water to be released.
2. Squeeze the cucumber mixture with your hands or a paper towel to remove any remaining liquid.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.
4. Add the drained cucumber mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir well to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers
Savor the flavors of Greece with these succulent lamb souvlaki skewers, perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection. A classic street food favorite, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add the lamb cubes and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread the lamb onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the lamb reaches desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Simple Greek Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of Greek ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the lamb or beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Pita Bread with Hummus
Experience the classic flavors of Greece with this simple yet delicious recipe that combines soft, fluffy pita bread with a rich and creamy hummus dip.
Ingredients:
For the Pita Bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup lukewarm water
For the Hummus:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
4. Punch down the dough, shape into balls, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. For the hummus, combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve warm pita bread with chilled hummus dip.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Greek Moussaka
A classic Greek dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying, this easy moussaka recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (white sauce)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Cook onion and garlic until softened; add ground meat, tomato puree, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine Parmesan cheese and bechamel sauce. Heat until smooth.
5. Assemble the moussaka by layering eggplant slices, meat mixture, and white sauce in a baking dish. Repeat twice, ending with white sauce on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Greek Feta and Tomato Omelette
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this simple yet satisfying omelette recipe, combining creamy feta cheese with sweet tomato and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup crumbled Greek feta cheese
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set (about 2 minutes).
4. Sprinkle feta cheese and diced tomato over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then slide onto a plate.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Quick Greek Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup, packed with the flavors of Greece! This recipe is a staple for any busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Greek-Style Grilled Fish
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious recipe for Greek-style grilled fish. Marinate your favorite white fish in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grill it to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white fish such as cod or tilapia)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the fish fillets to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove fish from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill fish for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon and a side of your favorite Mediterranean dish.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Greek Baklava
A classic Greek dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make! This recipe yields a deliciously sweet and nutty baklava that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup 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 chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Layer phyllo dough, walnut mixture, and melted butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish, repeating the layers three times.
5. Top with a layer of phyllo dough and brush with remaining melted butter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Cucumber and Yogurt Dip
This classic Greek dip is a perfect accompaniment to pita chips, vegetables, or as a topping for grilled meats. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor will keep you coming back for more!
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, and dill.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Squeeze in lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Simple Greek Beef Gyros
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying street food-style snack with this simple recipe for Greek beef gyros! Thinly sliced beef, tangy tzatziki sauce, and crispy pita bread come together to create a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as top round or rump), cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for a few minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by placing grilled beef onto warmed pita bread, topping with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Lemon Garlic Shrimp
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the tanginess of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the earthiness of herbs to create a dish that’s sure to impress. With its bold flavors and quick cooking time, Greek Lemon Garlic Shrimp is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy Greek Dolmades
A classic Greek appetizer or snack, dolmades are grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful rice and herb mixture. This simple recipe yields delicious results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the grape leaves by removing any stems or tough parts.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, dill, scallions, paprika, 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 rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the dolmades into neat packages. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the dolmades seam-side down in the pan.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the grape leaves are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Chickpea Salad
This hearty salad combines the flavors of Greece with the convenience of canned chickpeas, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its creamy feta cheese and tangy red wine vinegar, this salad is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek Honey and Sesame Bars
These bars combine the warmth of sesame seeds with the golden sweetness of Greek honey, perfect for a snack or dessert. With only 7 ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey (Greek or regular)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Add the honey, sesame seeds, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Greece with these easy-to-make recipes! From classic dishes like moussaka and spanakopita, to refreshing salads and sweet treats like baklava, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making Greek-style roasted potatoes, lamb souvlaki skewers, or stuffed peppers. For a lighter option, whip up a tzatziki sauce or a Greek-inspired lentil soup. Whatever you choose, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed Mediterranean with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes.