Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with these 18 delectable Greek appetizer recipes! Greek cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and hearty portions. When it comes to appetizers, Greeks don’t mess around – they pack a punch with every bite. From classic phyllo-based dishes like spanakopita and tyropita, to refreshing dips like tzatziki and melitzanosalata, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills of Greece. And that’s just the beginning! With an array of options ranging from savory meatballs and crispy fried zucchini chips to sweet treats like baklava bites and koulouri, there’s something for everyone in this collection of Greek appetizer recipes.
Spanakopita (Greek Spinach and Feta Phyllo Pie)
Spanakopita is a traditional Greek savory pie filled with spinach, feta cheese, and creamy egg custard, wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry. This recipe serves 6-8 people and is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Unroll phyllo dough and brush with olive oil.
4. Place 1 sheet of phyllo on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush with olive oil.
5. Spread half of the spinach mixture over the phyllo, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 to create a second layer.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Tzatziki (Greek Yogurt and Cucumber Dip)
This classic Greek condiment is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, pita bread, or as a snack on its own. With its tangy yogurt, cool cucumber, and hint of garlic, Tzatziki is a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow excess water to drain.
2. Squeeze out any remaining liquid from the cucumber using paper towels or a clean cloth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Add the drained cucumber, dill, salt, and pepper to the yogurt mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply refrigerate and serve chilled.
Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves with Lemon Sauce)
This traditional Turkish dish is a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer or main course, perfect for any occasion. By filling grape leaves with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, you’ll experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 20-24 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced (for sauce)
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, dill, scallions, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Lay grape leaves flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of each leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add dolmades, seam-side down, and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
6. Transfer dolmades to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. To make the lemon sauce, melt butter in a small skillet over low heat. Stir in lemon juice and serve with warm dolmades.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Baklava Bites with Honey Drizzle
Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these bite-sized Baklava treats combine crispy phyllo pastry, sweet honey, and crunchy nuts. Make them ahead of time and enjoy whenever you need a sweet fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Place a piece of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle a quarter teaspoon of the sugar mixture onto the dough, followed by a few chopped walnuts.
6. Fold the dough into triangles and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until all dough is used up.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with honey.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) with Tzatziki
This classic Greek recipe combines flavorful meatballs with a refreshing yogurt-based sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the rich flavors of Greece in no time!
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
For the Tzatziki:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the Tzatziki by combining yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
6. Serve warm meatballs with chilled Tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Halloumi with Herbs and Olive Oil
Grilled Halloumi with Herbs and Olive Oil: A Simple yet Flavful Greek-Inspired Recipe
Perfect for a summer evening, this recipe elevates the traditional Cypriot cheese halloumi to new heights by pairing it with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 250g)
– Fresh oregano leaves
– Fresh thyme sprigs
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the halloumi into thick slices (about 1/4 inch).
3. Brush both sides of the cheese with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill the cheese for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, chop the fresh herbs (oregano and thyme) coarsely.
6. Once the cheese is cooked, place it on a serving plate and top with the chopped herbs.
7. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the cheese and herbs.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tyropita (Crispy Cheese Phyllo Triangles)
A classic Greek appetizer or snack, Tyropita is a flavorful and crispy treat that combines melted cheese with crunchy phyllo pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup grated kefalograviera or other firm cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together the grated kefalograviera and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Layer 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
5. Spoon a small amount of the cheese mixture onto the center of each layer, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form triangles, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Fava Dip with Capers and Red Onion
This classic Greek dip is a staple at any gathering, and adding capers and red onion takes it to the next level. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for snacking or serving alongside pita bread or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas (fava)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fava and soak in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the fava, then blend with garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, capers, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in thinly sliced red onion.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with paprika or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (soaking time not included)
Loukaniko (Greek Sausage) Skewers
Experience the classic Greek combination of sweet and savory flavors with this simple recipe for Loukaniko (Greek Sausage) Skewers. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack, these skewers are sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Loukaniko sausage, sliced into thin rounds
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a sausage round, followed by a cherry tomato half, an olive, and finally another sausage round onto each skewer.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausages are cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or oregano if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Melitzanosalata (Smoky Eggplant Dip)
Discover the rich flavors of Greece with this classic smoky eggplant dip, perfect for snacking or serving alongside pita bread and grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (paprika de lazer)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplants, then sprinkle with minced garlic and smoked paprika.
4. Roast the eggplants for 45-50 minutes, or until they collapse and their skin is charred.
5. Let the eggplants cool slightly before peeling off the skin and scooping out the flesh into a bowl.
6. Mix in red wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Stuffed Mushrooms with Herbs
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful Greek-inspired stuffed mushrooms. Feta cheese, kalamata olives, and fresh herbs create a taste sensation that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps and remove stems.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, olives, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and thyme.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Koulouri (Greek Sesame Bread Rings)
Koulouri, a popular Greek bread ring, is a staple at many social gatherings and celebrations. This simple recipe yields a deliciously soft and crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving as an accompaniment to your favorite dips and spreads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and sesame seeds to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place disks onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each ring.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlicky Greek Hummus with Kalamata Olives
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful Garlicky Greek Hummus, infused with the savory goodness of Kalamata olives. This Mediterranean-inspired dip is perfect for veggie sticks, pita chips, or as a spread for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil and chopped olives.
4. Add water and blend until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Kalamata olives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Oktapodi (Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Oregano)
Savor the tender, smoky flavor of grilled octopus infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of oregano. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a warm evening or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cleaned and tentacle-free octopus
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 sprigs of fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the octopus under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, oregano, and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the octopus.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the octopus for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it develops a nice char and tender texture.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional oregano if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Fried Zucchini Chips with Feta-Yogurt Dip
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing and crispy treat, perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Feta-Yogurt Dip (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Slice zucchinis into thin rounds.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Dredge zucchini slices in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured zucchinis in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry zucchini chips in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with Feta-Yogurt Dip.
Feta-Yogurt Dip:
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve chilled alongside fried zucchini chips.
Greek Chickpea Fritters (Revithokeftedes)
Enjoy the taste of Greece with these crispy and flavorful chickpea fritters, typically served as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or a potato masher until coarsely chopped.
2. In another bowl, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the dry mixture to the mashed chickpeas and stir until well combined.
4. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small patties (about 1-inch diameter).
5. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Horiatiki Skewers (Mini Greek Salad Bites)
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized Horiatiki skewers, a Greek salad-inspired treat that combines the flavors of feta, olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cucumber
– 10-12 wooden skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato, an olive slice, and a piece of feta cheese onto each skewer.
3. Add a small chunk of cucumber to each skewer.
4. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the feta is slightly melted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Mini Greek Salad Bites!
Pita Bread Chips with Whipped Feta and Honey
Transform pita bread into crispy chips and pair them with a tangy whipped feta and drizzle of honey for a delicious snack. This easy recipe is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pita breads
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh herbs (optional), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut pita breads into triangles or strips.
3. Toss with olive oil and salt until evenly coated.
4. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Meanwhile, whip feta cheese and heavy cream together until smooth.
7. Drizzle honey over the whipped feta mixture.
8. Serve pita bread chips with whipped feta and honey. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of Greece with these 18 delectable appetizer recipes! From classic Spanakopita to Tzatziki, Dolmades, and Baklava Bites, this collection has something for everyone. Enjoy grilled delights like Halloumi and Octopus, or try your hand at making Greek Meatballs, Stuffed Mushrooms, and Chickpea Fritters. You’ll also find sweet treats like Honey Drizzled Baklava and Whipped Feta on Pita Bread Chips. These recipes are sure to transport you to the Mediterranean coast with every bite!
