KaoutarThe summer holidays are fast approaching all we want is a little freshness and color on our plates! So get to your forks! Let’s go on a gastronomic trip to Greece to learn about typical great Greek dishes.
Greek cuisine is part of the Mediterranean diet and as such, it is recognized around the world for its nutritional benefits. It is based on sharing, friendliness, and hospitality, typical values of the peoples of the Mediterranean basin.
Greek cuisine is therefore generous, colorful cuisine, full of juicy and tasty vegetables, aromatic herbs, all often seasoned with excellent olive oil (an attribute of Turkish gastronomy that reveals the influence of Ottoman domination), and a squeeze of lemon juice. From Athens to Thessaloniki via Mykonos, let’s discover together 10 essential greek dishes of Greek gastronomy.
THE MEZEDES
Mezedes are the indisputable symbol of sharing and conviviality typical of Greek cuisine and of the Mediterranean diet in general. These small appetizers with authentic flavors, which work a bit like Spanish tapas, can be enjoyed as a starter or become a unique dish but they must always be shared in good company, often washed down with a glass of ouzo, an anise aperitif. which is best enjoyed chilled. The Greek mezedes are almost endless, here are a few to taste absolute!
Horiatiki, the Greek salad
The Greek salad is the essential starter of the country’s cuisine that can be found on all tables. Absolutely fresh, it is known, appreciated, and consumed all over the world. But in Greece, its flavor is unique since the ingredients that compose it are necessarily tastier: the tomatoes and peppers soaked in sunshine, the feta tasted directly at the source, the black olives of a perfect roundness, almost sensual, the fresh and juicy onion and cucumber, and incredibly fragrant aromatic herbs! Once the dish is finished by all the guests, don’t forget to make “papara” in other words, lightly dress the dish
The Tzaziki
Mmm the tzaziki and the human race, a great love story! No need to make presentations, it can be enjoyed as a starter but it also accompanies most of the traditional dishes. Nestled in the heart of a piece of pita just out of the oven, it’s a real treat
The Spanakópita
A spinach and feta puff pastry is a perfect dish for vegetarians and not. In addition to being delicious, this kind of pie is also very practical to eat and transport, it will quickly become your best companion on the beach or on a boat, lost in the middle of the sea.
Dolmadakia, stuffed vine leaves
Summer is the best time to visit Greece if you want to sample its little wonders while they are still fresh. The rest of the year you will find them canned but always delicious. To be enjoyed cold, or hot if they are fresh.
Souvláki, meat skewer
These meat skewers (beef, pork or chicken) are to be enjoyed on a plate or in pita bread, accompanied by vegetables, tzatziki, and even fries, for a complete meal on the go.
Pita gyros
The famous Greek sandwich that can be found everywhere in Greece and on the islands. The value for money is unbeatable, the price, like that of souvlâki, generally turns around 2 € for an explosion of flavors in the mouth and a full belly.
THE DESSERTS
The Baklava
And now let’s talk about desserts. It is surely in the kitchen that the Ottoman influence is felt most in Greece. Baklava and a whole bunch of other oriental pastries, present and appreciated in the countries, are the most delicious proof of this.
The Loukoumades
A crunchy envelope that houses a melting and warm heart! Loukoumades are small, round donuts, traditionally made with honey and cinnamon. It is said that they were originally offered to the winners of the Olympic Games in Ancient Greece.
