Guide to the best Greek food

Must-try traditional Greek dishes.

What makes the best Greek food unforgettable? From hearty Moussaka to crispy Koulouri, our guide highlights the standout dishes of Greek cuisine. Learn where to find them, how to concoct these delights at home, and the history behind each savory bite. Start your culinary odyssey here, with everything you need for an authentic Greek feast.

Greek food

• Greek cuisine offers a diverse range of flavors, from tangy tzatziki and dolmades to heartier dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, not forgetting the fresh salads and sweet honey-soaked desserts like baklava.
• Traditional Greek food is not only rich in taste but also has regional variations and is deeply connected to cultural practices, with each dish often symbolizing a part of Greece’s history or tradition.
• Alongside the solid mainstays, Greek street food and beverages provide both convenience and a burst of authentic flavors, with offerings like gyros, tiropita, and the unique aromatic coffee Ellinikos or the pine-infused Retsina wine.

Mouthwatering Greek appetizers

Imagine sitting in a quaint Greek taverna, the sun setting over the sparkling Aegean Sea, sharing a table filled with a variety of mouthwatering appetizers with your loved ones. That’s the true essence of Greek cuisine, a symphony of flavors that start with delicious appetizers, setting the tone for the feast to follow.

From creamy yogurt dips like Tzatziki, to flavorful stuffed grape leaves known as Dolmades, and the savory spinach and feta pastry delight, Spanakopita, Greek appetizers offer a tantalizing mix of tastes and textures. Whether you’re dining in a Greek restaurant or cooking at home, these appetizers are the perfect way to kick-start your Greek food journey. Let’s dive deeper into these appetizing starters!

Tzatziki is a a creamy yogurt dip

Who can resist the lure of tzatziki? This creamy Greek yogurt dip, laced with fresh cucumber, olive oil, garlic, and a hint of lemon, has the power to transform a simple slice of bread or crunchy vegetable into a gastronomic delight. A staple in every Greek meal, Tzatziki is the perfect blend of refreshing flavors, making it an irresistible dip or sauce for your meals.

But Tzatziki isn’t just about tantalizing taste. With its heart-healthy yogurt and olive oil, blood pressure-lowering garlic, and cucumber’s hydrating power, Tzatziki is as good for your health as it is for your palate. And guess what? It’s the perfect sauce for a variety of Greek dishes, from lamb gyros to grilled meats like souvlaki.

Dolmades are flavorful stuffed grape leaves

Next up, we have dolmades, bite-sized bundles of joy wrapped in tender grape leaves. Filled with a flavorsome mix of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, each bite of Dolmades is a burst of Greek flavors in your mouth.

Making Dolmades is an art in itself. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Use large grape leaves without holes to ensure the filling stays intact.
• Roll the Dolmades firmly, but not too tight.
• Rinse and soak the rice in water before using it in the filling.
• There are endless variations of Dolmades, with different regions in Greece adding their own twists. Some may include a tangy tomato sauce, while others may incorporate ground meat.

Dolmades truly encapsulate the diversity of delicious Greek foods in Greek cuisine.

Spanakopita is a savory spinach and Feta pastry

Last but not least in our appetizer lineup is spanakopita, a delicious Greek cheese pie, also known as a Greek spinach pie. This savory spinach and feta pie is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients. Encased in flaky phyllo pastry, the salty feta and earthy spinach create a mouthwatering filling that leaves you coming back for more.

What’s more interesting is that every region in Greece has its unique twist on Spanakopita. Some areas add leeks and dill to the traditional spinach and feta filling, while others are known for their special recipes. Pair this with a serving providing a balanced dose of calories, protein, and fats, and you’ve got a healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on taste!

Delectable Greek main courses

Having whetted your appetite with some scrumptious starters, it’s time to dive into the heart of Greek cuisine - the main courses. Greek main courses are a delightful play of rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and traditional cooking methods, with dishes like Moussaka, Souvlaki, and Pastitsio taking center stage.

Imagine biting into a generous serving of Moussaka, the eggplant, and minced meat layered in harmonious symphony, or savoring the succulent skewered meat of Souvlaki, beautifully grilled and bursting with flavors. Or perhaps, you’d prefer the comforting Pastitsio, a baked pasta dish that’s Greek’s answer to lasagna. Let’s delve deeper into these culinary wonders.

Moussaka is a layered eggplant casserole

Moussaka, the undisputed star of Greek cuisine, is a layered casserole that’s a meal in itself. With succulent eggplants, rich ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce, every bite of Moussaka is a celebration of Greek flavors.

This iconic Greek dish is not only a joy to the tastebuds but also adaptable to different dietary preferences. The meat can be replaced with lentils or roasted eggplant for a vegetarian version. And whether it’s the traditional recipe or a vegetarian twist, Moussaka always hits the spot when it comes to a hearty, comforting meal.

Souvlaki are succulent meat skewers

Next up is Souvlaki, a popular Greek dish that’s all about the meat. Tender chunks of marinated meat are skewered and grilled to perfection, making Souvlaki a favorite among meat-lovers.

The secret to a good Souvlaki lies in the marinade - a tantalizing mix of Greek olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs. The marinated meat, usually pork, chicken, beef, or lamb, is then skewered and cooked over a high heat to achieve that beautiful charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Whether enjoyed on its own or wrapped in a warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, Souvlaki is a must-try Greek main course.

Pastitsio is comforting baked pasta

Last but not least, we have Pastitsio, a classic traditional Greek dish. Often referred to as Greek lasagna, Pastitsio is made with layers of pasta and ground meat smothered in a creamy béchamel sauce.

Making Pastitsio involves a delicate balance of flavors. The pasta, usually thick tubes, is layered with a spiced meat mixture, then smothered in a rich béchamel sauce before being baked to golden perfection. The end result is a comforting dish that’s a firm favorite in any Greek home.

Fresh and flavorful Greek salads

No Greek meal is complete without a fresh and flavorful salad. Greek salads are a vibrant mix of crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and drizzles of olive oil that perfectly balance the hearty main courses. They showcase the best of Mediterranean ingredients, with dishes like Horiatiki, Maroulosalata, and Fava offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the main courses. These salads are an essential part of Greek foods, highlighting the importance of fresh produce in their cuisine.

These salads highlight the freshness of Greek produce, including:

• Ripe tomatoes
• Crisp cucumbers
• Salty olives
• Creamy feta cheese

Whether it’s the classic Greek salad or the refreshing Maroulosalata, these salads bring a burst of freshness to your Greek meal.

Let’s learn more about these salads.

Horiatiki is the classic Greek salad

Horiatiki, commonly known as the Greek salad, is a simple yet flavorful combination of:

• tomatoes
• cucumbers
• olives
• feta cheese

It is dressed with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano. This salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and embodies the essence of Greek cuisine.

Apart from its delicious taste, Horiatiki also packs a nutritional punch with its low-calorie content and abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Its name ‘Horiatiki’ pays homage to its rustic village roots and it’s a nod to the summer salads eaten by Greek peasants.

With its simple ingredients and refreshing taste, it’s no wonder that Horiatiki has become a classic Greek dish enjoyed around the world.

Maroulosalata is a refreshing lettuce salad

Maroulosalata, a refreshing Greek lettuce salad, is a perfect blend of crisp romaine lettuce, fresh herbs, and a light lemon dressing. This salad is ideal for those looking for a lighter, fresher alternative to the classic Greek salad.

The beauty of Maroulosalata lies in its simplicity. The basic ingredients - romaine lettuce, green onions, and dill - can be easily customized to fit different dietary preferences. You can add feta cheese for a touch of creaminess or toss in some olives for a salty kick. Either way, Maroulosalata is sure to refresh your palate.

Fava is a creamy yellow split pea dip

Wrapping up our tour of Greek salads, we have Fava, a creamy yellow split pea dip. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in many Greek homes and is often served as a meze or appetizer at Greek meals.

Making Fava involves cooking yellow split peas until they are soft and then blending them with olive oil, red onion, garlic, and water. The result is a creamy, flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Whether served as a meze, a side dish, or a light lunch, Fava is a delicious and nutritious addition to any Greek meal.

Irresistible Greek desserts

After a hearty Greek meal, there’s nothing better than indulging in a sweet Greek dessert. Greek desserts are a delightful mix of textures and flavors, featuring ingredients like honey, nuts, and creamy custard. Whether it’s a piece of nutty Baklava, a plate of heavenly Loukoumades, or a slice of custard-filled Galaktoboureko, Greek desserts are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

These desserts are more than just a sweet end to a meal; they are a testament to the creativity and rich culinary history of Greece. Made with simple ingredients and traditional recipes, these desserts are deeply rooted in Greek culture and are loved by locals and tourists alike.

Baklava is a nutty phyllo pastry delight

Baklava, arguably the most iconic Greek dessert, is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, filled with chopped nuts, and drenched in sweet syrup. Each bite of Baklava is a delightful mix of crunchy nuts and sweet, flaky pastry.

Making Baklava is an art that involves careful layering of thin phyllo sheets, a mix of finely chopped nuts, and a generous drizzling of sweet syrup. The result is a dessert that is as delicious to eat as it is beautiful to look at.

Whether served at a festive celebration or enjoyed as a sweet afternoon treat, Baklava is a Greek dessert that is loved by all.

Loukoumades are heavenly fried dough balls

Next on our dessert list are Loukoumades, heavenly fried dough balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These golden orbs of deliciousness are drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon, making for a sweet treat that’s hard to resist.

The preparation of Loukoumades involves a yeast-risen dough that’s deep-fried until golden brown and then soaked in hot honey syrup. The result is a dessert that’s light yet satisfying, with a delightful contrast of textures.

Whether enjoyed as a dessert or as a sweet snack, Loukoumades are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Galaktoboureko is a custard-filled pastry

Last but not least, we have Galaktoboureko, a custard-filled pastry that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Made with layers of phyllo dough filled with creamy custard and then soaked in sweet syrup, Galaktoboureko is a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to pronounce!

Despite its fancy name, Galaktoboureko is a simple yet satisfying dessert that’s loved for its rich custard filling and crisp phyllo pastry. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, Galaktoboureko is a tasty Greek dessert that’s worth trying.

Greek Street Food Favorites

No visit to Greece would be complete without sampling the street food. Greek street food is a testament to the country’s culinary diversity, offering a range of quick bites that are as delicious as they are convenient. From the flavorsome Gyros to the cheesy Tiropita and the sesame-covered Koulouri, Greek street food offers a taste of Greek cuisine in a portable and affordable format.

These street food favorites are more than just a quick bite; they are a part of Greek culture. Whether it’s a comforting Gyros after a night out or a satisfying Tiropita for breakfast, street food is an integral part of the Greek culinary landscape. Let’s take a closer look at these street food favorites.

Gyros are flavorful pita sandwiches

If there’s one Greek street food that’s recognized worldwide, it’s Gyros. This flavorful pita sandwich is filled with rotisserie-cooked meat, fresh vegetables, and sauces, making it a satisfying meal on the go.

The secret to a great Gyros lies in the marinated meat, which is slowly roasted on a vertical spit before being thinly sliced and served in warm pita bread. Whether enjoyed with a side of fries or on its own, a Gyros is a delicious and satisfying street food favorite that’s loved by locals and tourists alike.

Tiropita are cheesy phyllo triangles

Next on our list of street food favorites is Tiropita, a cheesy phyllo triangle that’s a popular quick snack in Greece. Packed with feta cheese and wrapped in flaky phyllo dough, Tiropita offers a savory and satisfying bite that’s perfect for on-the-go eating.

Making Tiropita involves a mix of feta and cottage cheese with eggs and salt, wrapped in phyllo pastry, and then baked until golden and crispy. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, Tiropita is a Greek street food that’s loved for its cheesy goodness.

Koulouri are sesame-covered bread rings

Last but not least, we have Koulouri, sesame-covered bread rings that are a popular snack in Greece. These simple yet delicious bread rings are often enjoyed as a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Making Koulouri involves combining bread flour, fine salt, sugar, and toasted sesame seeds, and baking the dough into rings. Whether enjoyed plain or with a cup of Greek coffee, Koulouri is a Greek street food that offers a simple yet satisfying snack.

Greek beverages to quench your thirst

After exploring Greek food, it’s time to wash it all down with some traditional Greek beverages. From the strong and aromatic Ellinikos coffee to the refreshing Frappe and unique Retsina wine, Greek beverages offer a range of flavors that make them the perfect accompaniment to any Greek meal or a refreshing break on a hot day.

These beverages, like the food, are a reflection of Greece’s rich culinary heritage. Whether it’s a cup of traditional Greek coffee enjoyed in the morning, a refreshing Frappe on a hot afternoon, or a glass of Retsina wine paired with a Greek meal, these beverages enhance the overall Greek culinary experience.

Ellinikos is the traditional Greek coffee

First up, we have Ellinikos, a traditional Greek coffee that’s strong and aromatic. Served in a long-handled copper pot, Ellinikos is a beloved part of Greek culture and is enjoyed at any time of the day.

Ellinikos coffee is made with Arabica beans, which give it a robust and intense flavor. Whether enjoyed black or with a splash of milk, this Greek coffee is sure to perk up your senses. And with its deep roots in Greek culture, enjoying a cup of Ellinikos is like sipping on a piece of Greek history.

Frappe is an icy coffee delight

Next up, we have Frappe, a refreshing iced coffee drink that’s a favorite during hot Greek summers. Made with:

• strong coffee
• milk
• sugar syrup
• ice

Frappe is the perfect way to cool off while enjoying a caffeine kick.

Frappe was invented in Thessaloniki in 1957 and has since become a symbol of Greek coffee culture. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing morning pick-me-up or a cooling afternoon treat, Frappe is a delicious and refreshing Greek beverage that’s loved by locals and tourists alike.

Retsina is a unique pine-infused wine

Last but not least, we have Retsina, a unique Greek wine that’s infused with the resin of the Aleppo Pine. This gives Retsina a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from other wines.

Making Retsina involves adding pine resin during the wine-making process, which gives the wine its unique flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a Greek meal, Retsina offers a unique and enjoyable wine experience that’s sure to please wine lovers and curious drinkers alike.

Try Greek food

We’ve taken a tantalizing tour of Greek cuisine, exploring everything from mouthwatering appetizers and delectable main courses to refreshing salads, irresistible desserts, popular street foods, and invigorating beverages. Each dish and drink is a testament to Greece’s rich culinary history, showcasing fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and the warmth of Greek hospitality. So, whether you’re traveling to Greece or trying your hand at Greek cooking at home, enjoy this culinary journey and savor every bite and sip!

What food is Greece famous for?

Greece is famous for its must-try foods and drinks, including souvlaki, moussaka, fresh seafood, tzatziki, baklava, ouzo, and coffee. Enjoy a culinary adventure when visiting Greece.

What do picky eaters eat in Greece?

Picky eaters in Greece can enjoy souvlaki, a skewer of roast chicken or pork with roasted bell peppers, or biftekia, grilled burgers served with french fries or garlic potatoes. These options are likely to appeal to even the pickiest eaters.

What makes Greek food so special?

Greek food is special because it offers a celebration of fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and shared meals, reflecting Greek hospitality and culinary heritage. You can taste the love and history in every dish!

What are some popular Greek appetizers?

Some popular Greek appetizers are Tzatziki, Dolmades, and Spanakopita. They are all delicious and worth trying if you want to experience the flavors of Greek cuisine.

What main courses are popular in Greek cuisine?

Popular main courses in Greek cuisine include Moussaka, Souvlaki, and Pastitsio, which are a layered eggplant casserole, succulent meat skewers, and comforting baked pasta dish. Enjoy!