Although Greece is known for its several picturesque islands and coastline, that’s not all to experience in this beautiful nation. The prominent and exotic culture of Greece also involves food. Although many Greek delicacies are similar to those of Mediterranean countries like Italy, there are many unique variations that we recommend. Here are five foods and drinks to have the full taste of Greece.
Horiatiki
Horiatiki is a traditional Greek salad- with an emphasis on ‘traditional.’ You’ve likely had Greek salad even if you haven’t been to Greece before. Well, it’ll amaze you to know that Greek salad in Greece contains additional ingredients- with no lettuce.
Courtesy: A Couple Cooks
In Greece, this traditional salad includes red onion, cucumber, Kalamata olives, a generous volume of feta cheese(on top), tomato, and green pepper. This salad is often served as a starter wherever you are in Greece. Also, they are usually large enough for three to four people.
Baklava
What is a special Greek occasion without Baklava? Baklava is a staple on the special meal menu as far as Greece is concerned. It is a self-indulgent dessert generally associated with occasions and holidays. Served cold, it’s a perfect treat on a hot summer day.
Courtesy: My Greek Dish
Baklava is made with chopped pistachios or walnuts, cloves, cinnamon, honey syrup, and thin layers of phyllo pastry. It is usually cut into diamond shapes. During religious holidays, you can get Baklava at almost any restaurant or even at your hotel.
Greek wine
With the high winds and volcanic soil, it’s impressive to know that Santorini island is responsible for most of the wine in Greece. They grow the grapes in a low basket style to protect them and allow them to get water from the soil.
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Well, the result is the exotic wine produced in Greece. If you’re around Santorini, you shouldn’t miss out on tasting the variety of Greek wines on the island. We recommend tasting wines made from the white grape peculiar to the island, the Assyrtiko grape.
Loukoumades
Loukoumades are sweet doughnuts that can easily get you addicted, especially if you have a sweet tooth. These little doughnuts are an exciting combination of fluffy and crispy- the inside is fluffy, and the outside is crispy.
Courtesy: My Greek Dish
Loukoumades are drizzled with honey and dusted with cinnamon- so a sugar boost is sure. Some bakeries dust them with nuts- if you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you have another option. You can get Loukoumades in most bakeries, especially if you’re staying around Athens.
Soutzoukakia me Milopitakia
Soutzoukakia me Hilopitakia is a Greek version of spaghetti and meatballs. It is one of Greece’s most popular lunch options, and there’s a good reason for that. Although it’s a variant of spaghetti and meatballs, it’s anything but basic.
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Almost every restaurant has a different type of pasta, although you may see the squares more than once. Soutzoukakia me Hilopitakia is made with Greek meatballs served on egg pasta with tomato sauce. You just might find yourself eating it every other afternoon!
