Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Greece? Look no further! This article will take you through the flavors and aromas of traditional Greek cuisine, with 18 mouth-watering recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. From classic dishes like souvlaki and moussaka to modern twists on old favorites, these recipes showcase the best of Greek cooking.
Greek cuisine is all about bold flavors, vibrant colors, and hearty portions. It’s a cuisine that’s deeply rooted in tradition, yet also constantly evolving. In this article, we’ll explore a range of recipes that highlight the country’s love for fresh vegetables, tangy cheeses, and savory meats. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these Greek recipes are sure to delight.
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers
These Greek-inspired chicken skewers are a perfect blend of tangy, savory, and sweet flavors. Marinated in a zesty lemon mixture, these juicy chicken bites are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of oregano.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Easy Greek Salad with Feta
A classic combination of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of Mediterranean flair comes together in this effortless salad recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s also a great option for potlucks and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and red onion.
2. Crumble feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar (if using) over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Honey Parfait
A sweet and satisfying dessert that combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the natural sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons pure honey
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon granola or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed berries.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 to create a layered effect.
5. If using granola or chopped nuts, sprinkle on top of the second layer of yogurt.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
One-Pot Greek Lemon Rice
This simple and satisfying recipe combines the comfort of creamy rice with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of herbs. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Greek Spanakopita Bites
Get a taste of Greece with these bite-sized treats that combine the classic spinach and feta filling with flaky phyllo pastry. Perfect for parties or snacks on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 12 equal pieces. Place one piece on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the spinach mixture onto the center of each phyllo piece.
5. Fold the phyllo in half to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with a little water and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Style Baked Fish with Tomatoes
Experience the Mediterranean flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious baked fish recipe, featuring fresh tomatoes and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), skin removed
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Brush the mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Top each fish fillet with diced tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Greek Tzatziki Sauce
This refreshing sauce is a classic accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and authentic Greek tzatziki sauce in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes to allow excess water to be released.
2. Squeeze out as much liquid from the cucumber mixture as possible using your hands or a clean dishcloth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Add the drained cucumber mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir well to combine.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Greek tzatziki sauce!
Greek Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed bell peppers with this Greek-inspired recipe. Fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and savory spices come together for a deliciously satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine onion, garlic, cooked rice, feta cheese, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling as full as possible.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with oregano.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Greek Lentil Soup
This hearty and comforting lentil soup is a staple of Greek cuisine, made with tender green lentils, aromatic spices, and a hint of lemon. Serve it as a main course or alongside a crusty loaf for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, with a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Pita Bread Pizza
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece with the comfort of a classic pizza, all wrapped up in a crispy pita bread crust. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Greek pita breads
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the pita breads with olive oil.
3. Spread 1-2 tbsp of tomato sauce on each pita bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the pita bread is crispy and the toppings are heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek-Style Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful Greek-inspired recipe that combines the richness of olive oil, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the warmth of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, feta cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread potato mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown, flipping halfway through cooking time.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Greek Meatballs (Keftedes)
A classic Greek appetizer or snack, these flavorful meatballs are perfect for parties and gatherings. With a blend of ground beef, pork, and spices, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad
A refreshing and light Greek-inspired salad perfect for hot summer days. This simple recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the crunch of cucumbers, and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the tomato-cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quick Greek Hummus Wrap
Get a taste of Greece with this easy-to-make wrap, packed with creamy hummus, crunchy veggies, and savory feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach)
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Spread the hummus on the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with feta cheese, mixed greens, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
4. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Greek Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful Greek-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon and garlic sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Greek Baklava Rolls
Discover the sweet and crunchy combination of traditional baklava in a convenient roll form. This recipe is perfect for snack time, potlucks, or as a unique dessert offering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Brush with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the walnut mixture along the length of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border at either end.
6. Roll up the dough tightly but gently, applying even pressure to compress the filling.
7. Repeat with remaining phyllo sheets and filling.
8. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Feta and Olive Dip
A classic Greek dip that’s perfect for snacking or serving with pita bread, crackers, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of crumbled Greek feta cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest for added brightness
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, chopped parsley, and minced garlic.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest (if using).
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None – this dip is ready in just a few minutes of preparation!
Greek-Style Grilled Lamb Chops
This classic Greek dish combines the rich flavor of lamb with a zesty marinade and a hint of Mediterranean spices, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the marinade.
4. Let marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the Mediterranean with these 18 delicious Greek recipes! From classic dishes like easy Greek salad and stuffed bell peppers, to flavorful skewers and hearty soups, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making authentic Greek yogurt honey parfait or one-pot lemon rice. For a quick bite, whip up some spanakopita bites or meatballs (keftedes). And don’t forget the sweet treats like baklava rolls and feta and olive dip. With these recipes, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed hills of Greece without ever leaving your kitchen!
Leave a Reply