Are you looking to spice up your culinary repertoire with some delicious and easy-to-make Greek dishes? Look no further! Greece is renowned for its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and hearty portions, making it a culinary delight for anyone. As a beginner, you might be wondering where to start. The good news is that many classic Greek recipes are surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through 20 mouth-watering Greek dishes perfect for beginners. From savory salads to satisfying main courses, and from sweet treats to tangy dips, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become instant favorites in your kitchen.
Greek salad with feta and olives
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the best of Greece – crumbly feta, juicy olives, and crisp cucumbers. This classic recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, olives, and red onion.
2. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Greek lemon chicken
A classic Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a zesty lemon sauce, crunchy feta cheese, and a hint of oregano.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Sprinkle feta cheese on top of each breast during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh oregano leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade tzatziki sauce
Satisfy your Greek food cravings with this refreshing and tangy homemade tzatziki sauce recipe. Perfect for dipping pita bread, veggies, or as a topping for grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Squeeze the cucumber mixture with paper towels to remove excess liquid.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the drained cucumber mixture to the yogurt mixture. Mix well until combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is best served chilled, so you can make it ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Greek yogurt with honey and walnuts
Start your day with a deliciously simple breakfast or snack that combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt, the richness of honey, and the crunch of walnuts. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the yogurt mixture.
3. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in seconds!)
Quick spanakopita (spinach pie)
Quick Spanakopita Recipe: Spinach Pie for a Rushed Schedule
Enjoy this simplified version of the classic Greek spinach pie, perfect for when you’re short on time. This recipe still packs plenty of flavor and texture into a flaky phyllo crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
3. Add garlic, olive oil, egg, and water to the bowl; stir until well combined.
4. Place one phyllo sheet on a flat surface. Brush with some olive oil.
5. Spoon the spinach mixture onto the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Roll up the phyllo tightly, starting from the long side. Repeat with remaining sheets and filling.
7. Place the rolled spanakopita seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-style roasted potatoes
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these roasted potatoes infused with oregano, lemon, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Greek stuffed tomatoes
A flavorful and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory flavors of Greece, all wrapped up in a convenient package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, feta cheese, parsley, mint, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each tomato with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Greek meatballs (keftedes)
These flavorful meatballs are a classic Greek appetizer or main course, made with ground beef, pork, and a blend of aromatic spices. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these delicious keftedes in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, onion, garlic, olive oil, egg, 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 on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or oregano if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Greek pita bread with hummus
Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with this simple recipe that combines soft, fluffy pita bread with creamy hummus. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, this classic combination is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Hummus ingredients:
+ 1 cup cooked chickpeas
+ 1/4 cup tahini
+ 1/4 cup lemon juice
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, covering with plastic wrap.
4. Let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down and divide into 2-3 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
6. Bake pita bread for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, prepare hummus by blending all ingredients until smooth. Serve with warm pita bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-pot Greek lemon rice
This classic Greek recipe combines fluffy rice with bright citrus flavors and savory notes, all cooked to perfection in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated feta cheese (optional)
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 minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the pot, stirring to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-style grilled lamb chops
Greek-Style Grilled Lamb Chops Recipe
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Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these tender and juicy lamb chops, marinated in a zesty mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (about 1 1/2 pounds)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Place lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush the marinade evenly on both sides of the meat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill lamb chops for 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time:
– Total cooking time: approximately 20-25 minutes
– Internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare
Easy baklava with phyllo dough
A classic Middle Eastern dessert, baklava is a sweet and nutty treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and some simple assembly, you can have a delicious batch of baklava ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut it into four equal pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Layer the phyllo dough with the nut mixture, starting and ending with phyllo.
5. Brush the top layer of phyllo with melted butter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek garlic shrimp saganaki
This classic Greek recipe combines succulent shrimp with the pungency of garlic and a hint of lemon, served sizzling hot over crusty bread. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or as an appetizer for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and paprika.
5. Serve hot over toasted baguette slices, topped with feta cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Simple Greek lentil soup
Warm up with a comforting and flavorful bowl of lentils, reminiscent of Greece’s rich culinary heritage. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-style roasted vegetables
A flavorful and healthy side dish that combines the rich flavors of Greece with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the zucchinis, eggplants, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Greek yogurt pancakes
A twist on traditional pancakes, these fluffy and delicious treats incorporate the creaminess of Greek yogurt for an added boost of protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
– Fresh berries or syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Quick Greek orzo salad
In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious and refreshing salad perfect for any occasion! This Quick Greek Orzo Salad combines the creamy flavors of feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and artichoke hearts with the nutty taste of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo pasta, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek-style stuffed peppers
Greek-Style Stuffed Peppers Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Greek honey cookies (melomakarona)
These traditional Greek cookies are perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these deliciously sweet and sticky treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine honey, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek lemon garlic roasted chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful Greek-inspired recipe, featuring the perfect balance of bright citrus and savory garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the entire bird.
5. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Greece with these easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic Greek salad to homemade tzatziki sauce, you’ll find a variety of dishes that are quick to make and packed with flavor. Try your hand at traditional favorites like spanakopita (spinach pie) and keftedes (Greek meatballs), or experiment with new twists on old recipes like roasted potatoes and grilled lamb chops. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or simply satisfying, this collection of 20 recipes has got you covered!
