Greek cuisine and Greek dishes are a celebration of fresh ingredients, rich flavours, and centuries old traditions. From its sun soaked islands to its vibrant cities, Greece offers a culinary journey filled with delicious, wholesome dishes that have stood the test of time. If you’re planning to visit Greece or want to bring a bit of the Mediterranean into your kitchen, these 10 authentic Greek dishes are a must try.
10 Most Authentic Greek Dishes You Need to Try
1. Moussaka
Moussaka is perhaps the most iconic of all Greek dishes, often described as Greece’s answer to lasagna. This hearty casserole is made with layers of aubergines (eggplant), minced lamb or beef, and a rich béchamel sauce, all baked to golden perfection. The combination of the creamy béchamel with the tender meat and vegetables creates a comforting, indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Different regions in Greece may offer variations, with some recipes including potatoes or courgettes, but the base of aubergine and meat remains consistent. Moussaka is best enjoyed with a fresh Greek salad on the side.
2. Souvlaki
No trip to Greece is complete without trying Souvlaki. This beloved street food consists of small pieces of marinated meat (usually pork, chicken, or lamb) grilled on a skewer. It’s often served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki (a cucumber-yogurt sauce) or alongside rice and salad.
Souvlaki is simple, quick, and utterly delicious. Its smoky, chargrilled flavour and juicy, tender meat make it a favourite for locals and tourists alike.
3. Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a savoury Greek pie made with layers of crisp filo pastry filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. It’s a popular dish served both as a meal and a snack, often found in bakeries and homes throughout Greece.
The flaky texture of the filo pastry combined with the creamy, tangy filling makes Spanakopita irresistible. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a light dinner with a side salad.
4. Tzatziki
A must-have at any Greek meal, Tzatziki is a refreshing yogurt-based dip flavoured with garlic, cucumbers, olive oil, and a hint of lemon. It’s a versatile dish, served as a side, a dip for bread, or a sauce for grilled meats like souvlaki and gyros.
Tzatziki is light, tangy, and incredibly refreshing, making it an ideal accompaniment to many Greek dishes, especially in the hot Mediterranean climate.
5. Dolmades
Dolmades are vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat. These small, bite-sized delicacies are often served as part of a meze (small plate) spread. They can be served warm or cold, depending on the filling.
The vine leaves lend a unique, slightly tangy flavour to the stuffing, and the fragrant herbs (such as dill and mint) make each bite deliciously aromatic. Dolmades are a staple of Greek cuisine, showcasing the country’s love for fresh, flavourful ingredients.
6. Greek Salad (Horiatiki)
No Greek meal is complete without a Greek salad. Also known as Horiatiki, this salad features simple yet flavourful ingredients such as ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and blocks of creamy feta cheese. The salad is typically dressed with olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and sprinkled with oregano.
Greek salad is a refreshing, healthy dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The key to its flavour lies in the quality of the ingredients, particularly the ripe, juicy tomatoes and authentic Greek feta.
7. Pastitsio
Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish that closely resembles lasagna but with a Greek twist. The dish consists of layers of tubular pasta (like penne), ground beef or lamb cooked with tomatoes, and a thick, creamy béchamel sauce. It’s baked until golden and served in hearty portions.
This comfort food is rich and satisfying, making it perfect for a family meal. The combination of pasta and spiced meat, topped with the béchamel, gives Pastitsio its unique Greek character.
8. Gyros
Gyros is another popular street food that’s similar to souvlaki, but the meat (usually pork or chicken) is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The sliced meat is served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, fries, and a generous dollop of tzatziki.
Gyros is a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal that you’ll find at almost every street corner in Greece. It’s an essential part of Greek fast food culture and perfect for a casual, on-the-go meal.
9. Fasolada
Known as the national dish of Greece, Fasolada is a simple yet hearty bean soup made with white beans, tomatoes, carrots, celery, and olive oil. It’s often flavoured with herbs like oregano and bay leaves, making it a nutritious and filling meal.
Fasolada is particularly popular during the colder months and is a great example of Greek comfort food. Despite its simplicity, the flavours of the fresh vegetables and herbs make it a satisfying and wholesome dish.
10. Keftedes
Keftedes are Greek-style meatballs, typically made from minced beef or lamb mixed with onions, garlic, herbs, and sometimes breadcrumbs. They’re usually fried to a crispy golden brown and served as part of a meze platter or with a tomato based sauce.
Keftedes are flavour packed, juicy, and tender, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Serve them with tzatziki for dipping or alongside a Greek salad for a perfect meal.
Conclusion
Greek cuisine is as rich in history as it is in flavour, and these 10 dishes offer a wonderful glimpse into the heart of traditional Greek cooking. From the hearty Moussaka to the refreshing Tzatziki, each dish brings a unique taste of Greece to the table.
Whether you’re visiting Greece or cooking at home, trying these authentic dishes is a delicious way to experience the flavours of the Mediterranean.
