Sharing food with family and friends. That is what it’s all about when it comes to eating in Greek culture. And we need to say Athens is just a paradise for food lovers! Traditional tavernas serving delicious souvlaki, gyros, and Greek coffee. We like to share some of these great Greek dishes with you in our must try greek food list!
1. Greek Salad
Let’s start with The Greek Salad, also known as horiatiki, this is a refreshing and colorful salad. The key ingredients of this flavourful salad include ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, Kalamata olives, and generous chunks of feta cheese. These ingredients are all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with fragrant herbs such as oregano. Try this classic dish on warm days, it will cool you down!
2. Saganaki
A traditional warm appetizer for cheese lovers, Saganaki. Phyllo pastry filled with feta and then fried to golden crispy perfection. The combination of the crispy outside and creamy cheese inside, is just amazing. To balance the rich cheese flavor, people often add a little fresh lemon juice or honey syrup with sesame seeds. One of our favorites!
3. Dolmades
This is something spacial. Dolmades are vine leafs filled with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and aromatic herbs. These little bundles of goodness are famous in Greek cuisine. Homemade dolmades are highly recommended over store-bought versions. The care and love put into crafting each delicate dolma ensure a great taste and texture.
4. Souvlaki
When you are in Athens, you need to try the most popular street food ever, Souvlaki! Grilled skewered meat, typically pork or chicken, served on warm and fluffy pita bread . The irresistible flavor of perfectly grilled meat, which is marinated with a blend of Mediterranean herbs and spices. Souvlaki is often topped with creamy tzatziki sauce, along with fresh tomatoes and red onions.
5. Tzatziki
We all know this refreshing sauce, a classic in Greek cuisine. It is made from Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Whether you’re dipping fluffy pita bread, dunking juicy kebabs, or spooning it onto your plate, Tzatziki is just it! If you would like to try making this yourself it is super easy with this recipe.
6. Moussaka
Let’s talk comfort food! Moussaka a timeless Greek lasagna dish that takes inspiration from the Ottoman Empire. Layers of sliced eggplant, ground lamb, and creamy béchamel sauce come together to create the Moussaka. Moussaka stands out from other dishes because of its delicious blend of flavors and textures. Yummy 🥰
7. Spanakopita
This traditional Greek spinach, feta pie is a must-try snack for all of you visiting Athens. This flaky phyllo pastry is filled with a combination of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and aromatic herbs. The pie is baked to golden-brown perfection.
8. Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is known for its thick and creamy texture. One popular way to enjoy Greek yogurt is by adding a drizzle of honey and a handful of walnuts on top. The sweetness of the honey complements the tanginess of the yogurt, while the crunchy walnuts add a crunchy texture. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast option or a dessert, serving as a healthier alternative to other sweet treats.
9. Revani
Try this Greek cake Revani! A moist cake made with semolina flour, which gives it a slightly granular texture. Instead of being overly sweet, this must try Greek dessert is soaked in a simple syrup that is flavored with orange zest. The syrup seeps into the cake, infusing it with a subtle citrus aroma and the perfect amount of sweetness. It really is one of our favourite cakes 🍰
10. Ouzo
A drink on the must try greek food list? Yes, Ouzo! The iconic Greek drink known for its anise-flavored taste. This traditional spirit is often enjoyed alongside a mezze platter, which consists of small plates of appetizers. When ouzo is served on ice, the anise oils in the drink are watered down, giving it a milky white look. Yamas!
