3 + 1 Greek traditional dishes not to miss!

Greek traditional dishes not to miss (3 + 1 Bonus)

So, are you planning to visit Greece and everybody tells you about traditional food experiences that they had in their visit? Have you already started drooling with just the idea of trying out new flavours? Then , it’s time to talk about the Greek traditional dishes that you must try when visiting Greece. Today’s topic for our foodies will be anything from appetizers to salads to main courses to fast food.

When it comes to Greek food, the term “traditional” is synonymous with authenticity and a deep-rooted connection to the country’s history. Each Greek dish tells a story, reflecting the diverse regional influences and culinary traditions passed down through generations. From the iconic moussaka and spanakopita to the tangy tzatziki and succulent souvlaki, the variety of traditional Greek dishes is as diverse as the landscapes that define this beautiful country.

Exploring traditional Greek cuisine means embarking on a gastronomic adventure where every bite unveils a blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re savoring the delicate balance of herbs and spices, indulging in the richness of olive oil, or enjoying the simplicity of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, each dish is a testament to the artistry and passion of Greek cooking. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Greek traditional dishes, where every meal is a celebration of culture, history, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.

There are many Greek traditional dishes that are worth trying, but here are three of the most popular ones that you definitely should not miss.

Traditional Greek Food you Should Try

Tzatziki

And now we are going to going to introduce you to our 5-star traditional appetizer / sauce for today. Tzatziki. Just one simple word that you can translate it to feelings for everyone that have tried it. Tzatziki is really simple to make and also one of the most  famous food in Greece. The ingredients are cucumbers, Greek yogurt, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt and of course garlic. An amazing sauce that is the perfect dip for bread and French fries, but it’s also perfect just by itself. It’s a sauce that calorie-wise is ideal because you’re not adding a lot of calories to your meal (unlike mayo), cause it’s just cucumber and Greek yogurt. The tradition says that to make tzatziki you need strained goat or sheep’s yogurt, but nearly any kind of Greek yogurt will have great results.

Read more:What are the must-try Greek comfort foods?

Greek salad

Okay, we know that everybody knows Greek salad, but there’s a small misconception behind the name of this traditional salad in Greek cuisine. In Greece we nearly never address to this salad as “Greek salad”. The translation of the name of this salad that Greek people use is “village salad”. This is because the ingredients of the salad resemble the ones that people from villages grow in their backyard. So, what does this salad have as ingredients? To make this salad you use tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, green peppers, a thick slice of feta cheese in the top and some olives. Salt and oregano are are the seasonings for this salad. Sometimes you may find a variation of this salad with caper berries. If you want to make this salad by yourself, the secret behind it is to use as fresh ingredients as possible.

 

Moussaka

Moussaka is one of the most famous Greek traditional dishes that you can try in Greece. The place of origin is said to be Greece and Middle East. You can find this dish with a lot of local variations, but the most famous version of it appeared in the 20s in the most famous Greek culinary book of Nikolaos Tselementes. The classic recipe has three different layers that are cooked separately before combining them into the final baking. The bottom layer has sliced eggplant sautéed in olive oil. The second one is ground lamp combined with puréed tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices such as cinnamon, black pepper and allspice. The last one is a famous sauce in Greece which is the Béchamel sauce. Combine and bake these three layers until the top layer is brown. And voila! You can now enjoy one of the most famous Greek traditional dishes!

Join a cooking class to learn hot to make your own Moussaka and see why you need to join one!

 

Souvlaki & Gyros

Do you need something fast to eat? Souvlaki and gyros, are extremely popular among Greek people. Souvlaki consists of small pieces of meat grilled on a skewer. Sometimes it also has vegetables pieces like bell peppers or onions in between the meat pieces. Gyros is approximately round, thin, flat slices of meat, which are then stacked on a spit, seasoned and cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Both souvlaki and gyros are most of the times pork or chicken meat. But why are both of them in the same category? This is because we use them both with onions, tomato, lettuce, fries and of course tzatziki rolled in a pita bread. The name of it is “tylichtó” (means wrapped in Greek). You can find in everywhere in Greece and it’s the best fast & traditional food (but not junk food)!

Exploring Greek Gastronomy: Unveiling Traditional Dishes Through Food Tours in Greece

Embarking on a food tour in Greece is a delectable adventure that takes you beyond the surface of Greek cuisine. These guided tours offer a curated selection of culinary experiences, allowing you to discover hidden gems, engage with passionate local food artisans, and dive deeper into the rich tapestry of Greek flavors. From strolling through bustling markets to indulging in traditional tavernas, a food tour in Greece promises an immersive journey that will tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories.

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💬GreeceFoodie’s recomendations for walking food tours in Greece:

• Naxos Walking Food Tour
• Heraklion Market Food Tour
• Santorini Walking Food Tour
• Chania Food Tour
• Athens for Food Lovers

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Ready to embark on a mouthwatering exploration of Greek cuisine? Book your food tour now and experience the authentic flavors of Greece like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, a food tour will provide you with an insider’s perspective on the vibrant culinary scene of Greece. Join fellow gastronomes and let knowledgeable guides lead you through the culinary hotspots, uncovering the secrets of Greek gastronomy along the way. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to savor the best of Greek cuisine. Book your food tour today and let your taste buds guide you to an unforgettable culinary adventure in Greece!

 

Greek Cuisine in a nutshell

In conclusion, traditional Greek dishes offer a culinary experience like no other, immersing you in Greece’s rich flavors and cultural heritage. From the vibrant colors of a Greek salad to the aromatic spices of a Greek stew, each dish is a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving its culinary traditions. Whether you’re dining at a local taverna or trying your hand at cooking a traditional Greek recipe at home, these dishes provide a gateway to discovering the soul of Greek cuisine.

So, indulge your taste buds, embrace the warmth of Greek hospitality, and embark on a gastronomic journey through the enchanting world of Greek traditional dishes. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Athens or relaxing on a picturesque island, the flavors of Greece will captivate your senses and leave you with a lasting appreciation for the vibrant and diverse culinary heritage that defines this remarkable country. Opa!