10 Irresistible Greek Dishes to Savor on Your Trip

Greece is famous for its delectable Mediterranean fare, combining freshness, flavor, and simplicity. Below is a selection of must-try dishes during your upcoming visit.

Greece Famous for its rich historical legacy and stunning vistas, this place is equally indispensable for those passionate about gastronomy. Whether you're exploring the glittering shores of the Aegean Sea or meandering through quaint white-washed mountain hamlets, different areas provide their distinctive gourmet treasures, brimming with regional tastes. The essence of Greek cooking, characterized by genuine flavors and high-quality ingredients, mirrors its ancient traditions and welcoming spirit. Delectable meals crafted with zeal and passed down over generations can be found at nearly every turn, whether in cozy taverns or mom-and-pop eateries nestled along scenic streets.

Planning a trip to Greece? Learn more about the destination to get ready for your journey:

• Greece: 30 Key Phrases to Master in Greek for a Smooth Trip
• Greece: Most Stunning Islands to Explore Within Each Archipelago
• Greece: 6 lesser-known spots to explore away from typical tourist attractions

Moussaka

Moussaka is a signature dish from Greek cooking. This layered casserole features eggplants, ground mutton, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various spices, topped with a savory Béchamel sauce and baked until it achieves a lovely golden-brown color and silky texture.

Souvláki

Souvlaki is a cornerstone of Greek street cuisine. Typically made from chunks of meat such as pork, chicken, or lamb that have been seasoned with various spices, threaded onto skewers, and then grilled. This dish is commonly enjoyed wrapped in pita bread alongside crisp veggies, slices of onion, tomato, along with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Tarama

Taramasalata is a delightful appetizer prepared by combining fish roe (typically from cod), olive oil, lemon juice, onions, and occasionally potatoes. This dish is typically enjoyed alongside freshly baked bread.

Horiatiki (Greek salad)

The classic Greek salad known as Horiatiki is a straightforward yet delicious dish. It consists of ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, red onions, green bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese, all complemented by a dressing of olive oil and sprinkled with oregano and other herbs.

Dolmadakia

Dolmades consist of vine leaves filled with a blend of rice, onions, fragrant herbs, and olive oil. These small delights make for an excellent appetizer or starter.

Gyros

Gyros resemble Souvlaki but are presented as meat (such as pork, chicken, or lamb) roasted on a vertical spit. Afterward, the thin slices of this meat are placed inside pita bread along with various vegetables and condiments, including tzatziki.

Fried squid

Surrounded by the ocean, Greece naturally features plenty of seafood dishes. One beloved option across the nation is fried calamari, which is enjoyed for its crisp texture and often accompanied by wedges of lemon.

Spanakopita

The dish consists of a spinach and feta pie crafted from sheets of flaky phyllo pastry enclosing a blend of freshly chopped spinach, onions, crumbled feta cheese, eggs, and aromatic herbs. It offers a delightful meat-free choice.

Baklava

Why not go for Baklava as your dessert? It’s a delightful combination of a crunchy pastry composed of multiple layers of filo dough filled with finely chopped nuts and drizzled with a sweet syrup infused with hints of cinnamon and orange blossom water.

Loukoumades

Loukoumades are petite spheres of fried batter akin to doughnut holes, subsequently soaked in honey and dusted with cinnamon. It’s a delectable indulgence you should not miss out on.