My Favorite Greek Foods
If you’ve learned anything about me so far, you know that I love food. And Greek food is no exception! It is quickly becoming one of my favorites and for very good reason. There is so much flavor and so many different layers of taste. The way Greeks pair their foods and drinks is quite simply an art form. Here are some of my favorites…some of my biggest recommendations for you to try when you take your trip there.
Dolmades- there are many different styles of dolmades (I would even assume each family puts their own variation on the meal) but the idea is always the same. A hollowed out vegetable, like a tomato or pepper (or sometimes grape leaves are used), stuffed with minced meat, rice and herbs. This dish is very comparable to stuffed peppers here in the states but the taste is much different between countries. The spices used in Greece bring out flavors you didn’t even know existed.
Olives and Olive Oils- you know the Greek goddess Athena? Well her story is that she threw her spear into the acropolis and planted an olive branch in the hole. From that Greece’s very first olive tree grew. And the rest is history. There are more varieties of olives and olive oil in Greece than almost anywhere else in the world. They must know what they’re doing then, right?
Feta and fresh cheese- Cheese is everywhere in Greece and if you’ve never tasted it fresh before, you are missing out. Imagine those balls of fresh mozzarella that you can get here in the grocery store but much much better. Also make sure you try Feta Mi Meli which is a block of feta cheese wrapped in phyllo dough, baked and then drizzled with honey…{insert drooling, here}
Baklava- a perfect combination of pastry and sweetness. Layers upon layers of flaky phyllo dough are stacked and stuffed with a combination of nuts, butter, sugar and honey. Light and delicious and the perfect end after a heavy meal. A mainstay in the Greek culture and a must try when you’re there.
Retsina wine- perfect pairs with meals including mint, rosemary or dill...which by the way, these ingredients are included in most meals in Greece. This unique wine is aged in barrels that have been sealed with pine resin. It’s believed that pine resin prevents air from getting into the barrels and allows the wine and resin aromas to meld more distinctively.
Hungry yet? I know I am. I think I might make some Greek food for dinner tonight.
When you’re ready to start planning your trip to Greece, reach out to me. I’d be happy to put together the perfect itinerary for you.
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