Greece

View of the iconic white architecture of Santorini with blue domes and the Aegean Sea.

Stijn te Strake

Unsplash

Blue Skies, Turquoise Seas, and the Elixir of the Mediterranean – A Journey Through Greek Cuisine

Greece, the cradle of Western civilization and the land of ancient gods and philosophers, is as rich in culture as it is in flavor. From the ancient ruins of the Acropolis to the iconic white villages on volcanic islands like Santorini, Greece is the essence of the Mediterranean. It is renowned for its warm hospitality, deep history, and, of course, its cuisine, which is considered the gold standard of the healthy Mediterranean diet.

Greek cuisine is a celebration of freshness, simplicity, and wholesome natural flavors. It is built on three pillars: olive oil, which is called liquid gold and used in everything; herbs, such as oregano, thyme, and mint; and seasonal vegetables. The dishes are filling yet light, emphasizing healthy fats, whole grains, beans, and legumes. The cuisine varies geographically – islands are dominated by fish and seafood, while the mainland is home to rich meat specialties.

Iconic Dishes and Mediterranean Life:

The heart of Greek gastronomy is the culture of sharing (Mezze) and communal dining that lasts for hours. Iconic dishes include the queen of baked dishes, Moussaka (layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce), the popular street food Souvlaki (grilled meat on skewers), and the refreshing Tzatziki (yogurt sauce with cucumber and garlic). No feast is complete without the salty Feta cheese and olives. Greek cuisine is not just about food; it is a philosophy of joy, sun, and long life.