Greece is a country known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and, most notably, its delicious cuisine. Greek food is characterized by fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and traditional recipes passed down through generations. Whether you are dining in a local taverna or enjoying a street food snack, here are some must-try foods when traveling to Greece.
1. Moussaka
A classic Greek dish made with layers of sautéed eggplant, minced meat (typically lamb), and a creamy béchamel sauce, baked to perfection. Moussaka is often flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg, giving it a unique taste that is distinctly Greek.
2. Souvlaki
Souvlaki is a popular streetfood; they are grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually pork or chicken, served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
3. Dolmades
These are grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, pine nuts, and herbs like dill and mint. Sometimes, minced meat is added to the filling. Dolmades are often served cold and drizzled with lemon juice, making them a refreshing appetizer.
4. Spanakopita
Spanakopita is believed to have originated in the region of Epirus in northwestern Greece. A savory pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs, all encased in layers of crispy filo dough.
5. Tzatziki
Tzatziki is not only popular in Greece but also in neighboring countries, each having its own variation of the dish. Perfect as an appetizer or a sauce for grilled meats, the refreshing dip is made from strained yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs.
6. Grilled Octopus
If you love seafood then this is for you! The octopus is often tenderized by simmering it in wine or vinegar then grilled to perfection and drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.
7. Shrimp Saganaki
The name "saganaki" refers to the small, two-handled frying pan in which this dish is traditionally prepared. It is a dish of shrimp cooked in a rich tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and feta cheese. Often served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
8. Baklava
A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. Known for its flaky texture and rich flavor. Baklava is enjoyed throughout the Middle East and the Balkans, with each region having its own unique twist on the recipe.
9. Loukoumades
Small, deep-fried doughnuts drizzled with honey and often sprinkled with cinnamon and crushed walnuts. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. A fun fact about this special treat is that they were awarded to winners in the ancient Greek Olympics, making them one of the oldest recorded desserts.
10. Greek Salad (Horiatiki)
A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil, oregano, and sometimes a splash of red wine vinegar. You may observe that this traditional salad does not include lettuce; instead, it focuses on fresh, simple ingredients that showcase the flavors of Greece.
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