The Greek diet is packed with fresh flavors and great nutrition. With a cuisine based on fresh vegetables, a wide variety of meats such as lamb, chicken and pork, the Greek diet is known to be one of the healthiest in the world. The fantastic use of herbs and spices gives Greek food distinctive flavors, which are intensified by the generous use of olives, lemons and garlic, which are frequently used in many traditional and family recipes. Known for being lovers of family celebrations, food is a big part of any special occasion and religious holiday where everyone is greeted and enjoyed bright, aromatic meals and delicious, flowing wine.

Within the Greek culture, the Easter festival begins on the first day of Lent, which is when the Greek community prepares for the resurrection of Christ by cleansing their bodies. The foods eaten during this time include the word ‘nistisma’ to symbolize that it does not contain any restricted foods. The traditional foods eaten during this religious holiday are tsoureki, the traditional Easter bread that has a slightly sweet taste, and Greek Easter cookies that are made to share with loved ones and visitors within the home. Resurrection Sunday is a very famous day in which the Easter soup called mayerista is enjoyed, made with lamb organs and elegant seasoning. Desserts and sweets are greatly enjoyed in Greek cuisine and, along with Easter, Christmas heavily involves a variety of Greek cookies such as Melomakarona, which are cookies covered in honey and nuts.

Greek recipes will frequently include some of your most beloved ingredients that not only adhere to the ancient recipes, but also help create the delicious flavors associated with Greek food. Phyllo dough is commonly used for baking and is a common ingredient in many Greek dishes. Used for recipes such as Spanakopita (spinach pie) and the sweet dessert Baklava, phyllo dough is an ultra-thin pastry that is also used in many appetizers and side dishes. Pita bread is also used in many Greek meals as it is so versatile, used for a variety of Greek-style sandwiches and as a side to many main meals. Pita breads are commonly used with sauces such as yogurt and cucumber or olive oil and lemon juice and due to their versatility; they can be used as part of a main meal or as a quick snack. The vast majority of Greek meals incorporate lemons and olives, with olive oil being a main ingredient in dishes from salads to entrees and dipping sauces. The frequent use of lemons in dishes helps create the fresh, tangy flavor common in Greek dishes.

The meat of choice in many Greek households is lamb, which is usually spit-roasted and used for a multitude of foods, from stews to Greek-style sandwiches and wraps. A common meal in many Greek homes and restaurants is Souvlaki, which combines chicken, pork, beef, or fish with a mix of vegetables and is compared to the skewered meat kebab recognized in other cultures. Greek main courses incorporate a choice of meat with a wide range of fresh vegetables, such as Moussaka, which is a popular casserole dish made up of aubergines, tomatoes, peppers, onions and in some cases, a type of meat, although it can also be enjoy as a vegetarian meal. Greek meals combine various vegetables, but depending on which vegetables are in season will determine which ones are used in each recipe. In summer, many of the favorite Greek dishes will be accompanied by delicious fresh salads, like the infamous Greek Salad. This dish combines olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese with plenty of olive oil and seasoning, though some Greek salads may also include walnuts as a garnish.

Greek food is not only healthy and nutritious, but also tasty, fun, bright and aromatic. Combining the basics of what makes great food and adding elegant touches of spices, herbs, and care, Greek cuisine is not only a way to celebrate the food itself, but also a way in which we can understand more about the culture. Greek and how The food porridge we know and love is derived from the Greeks themselves.