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Vegetarian Greek Food: a vegetarian’s dream
Vegetarian Greek food is a dream for any vegetarian. The variety of dishes available is endless, and each one is healthy and delicious. Best of all, many of the traditional Greek dishes are naturally vegetarian, making it easy to find something to suit every taste.
Vegetarian Greek food typically features plenty of vegetables and legumes, as well as fresh herbs and spices. Common ingredients include tomatoes, eggplants, zucchini, beans, lentils, rice, and bulgur wheat. There are also plenty of delicious vegan options, such as spanakopita (spinach pie) and dolmades (stuffed vine leaves). And of course, no meal would be complete without a refreshing Greek salad! Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or just looking to try something new, Vegetarian Greek food is definitely worth checking out.
Read more: The art of Greek Herbs
If you look more into the Greek gastronomy and the traditional dishes, you will soon realize how vegetarian-friendly is Greece in reality.
Greek cuisine is not only a vegetarian dream come true but is also super healthy! Greeks consider the nutritional value of each dish as an important factor when creating it. This approach has its roots in ancient Greece, where people viewed the gathering of ingredients as well as the actual process of cooking as a spiritual experience. Many people consider Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher, as one of the first people to practice vegetarianism as an act of nonviolence to animals.
Athens Vegan Food Tour
Looking for a delicious and alternative way to experience the best of Athens? Join us on Athens vegan food tour!
Of course, as the years passed meat became more available and people began to consume it at a more frequent pace. It was still a luxury though. The average Greek couldn’t afford to eat meat more than twice a year. Their everyday diet was filled with fruits and vegetables. Just like nowadays.
Read more: The ancient art of breadmaking in Greece
What’s another reason why Greek food is a vegetarian’s dream?
Well, the majority of the Greek population is Orthodox. Their religious guidance is consists of extended periods of religious fasting, where Greeks have to stop consuming animal products. Because of that, Orthodox people in Greece are used to eating animal-free meals and have developed lots of nutritious alternatives to satisfy their eternal desire for delicious meals!
What should a vegetarian expect when visiting Greece? A plethora of options. All ensuring that you won’t miss the true essence of Greek gastronomy. So, because Greek food is a vegetarian’s dream. Don’t miss trying traditional dishes such as gemista or horta, gigantes or saganaki and of the Greek desserts! Cheers to yummy meals!
Classic vegetarian Greek dishes
Greek cuisine is well-known for its use of fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices that create the perfect blend of flavors in each dish. Vegetarianism has played a significant role in Greek cuisine, and there are plenty of vegetarian options available for those who follow this diet. Here are some classic vegetarian Greek dishes:
Horiatiki (Greek Salad)
A Greek salad is a refreshing and colorful dish made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, and feta cheese. It is seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano. This salad is a perfect appetizer or side dish that can be served with any main course.
Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)
Spanakopita is a traditional Greek savory pastry made with spinach and feta cheese. The filling is wrapped in layers of phyllo pastry, and then it’s baked until golden and crispy. It is an excellent dish for vegetarians and can be served as a snack or a main course.
Gigantes Plaki (Giant Baked Beans)
Gigantes Plaki is a hearty and nutritious dish made with giant white beans cooked in a tomato sauce with herbs and spices. It is typically served as a main course and is perfect for a cozy dinner.
Fasolakia (Green Beans in Tomato Sauce)
Fasolakia is a delicious and easy-to-make dish made with fresh green beans cooked in a tomato sauce. It is seasoned with herbs and spices and is typically served as a side dish.
Gemista (Stuffed Vegetables)
Gemista is a Greek classic that is made by stuffing vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, and zucchini with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. The vegetables are then baked until tender and served with a tomato sauce. It is a filling and satisfying main course for vegetarians.
A team of foodies, cooks, and travelers. Alios Tours was founded out of our passion for Greek food. We share the delicious side of Greece.
