From crispy spanakopita and juicy chicken souvlaki to flaky baklava, these authentic Greek recipes bring fresh Mediterranean flavors to your table.

My first introduction to authentic Greek food came during a late-night college craving. It was a gyro with soft pita, tender meat, crisp vegetables, cool tzatziki and a drizzle of hot sauce, and it instantly won me over. That balance of fresh, zesty and comforting tastes makes Greek recipes memorable, and our list of traditional Greek dishes celebrates these defining flavors.

This collection includes handheld street food favorites, like chicken souvlaki, lamb pitas and spanakopita, as well as hearty mains such as Greek chicken and potatoes, moussaka and kofta meatballs. These Greek cooking recipes are built on a few essentials, like the best olive oil, garlic, lemon and Mediterranean herbs and spices, such as oregano, dill and mint. Paired with tangy feta or creamy yogurt, these ingredients bring every dish to life.

Many of these dishes can also be adapted to dietary preferences. Replace grilled meat with falafel or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian pita filling, or use vegan yogurt in sauces to keep them dairy-free. From a quick tomato feta salad to a carefully assembled dish of flaky baklava, these recipes capture the warmth and richness of the Mediterranean for a truly unforgettable Greek feast.

Taste of Home