Cooking Greek in Hot Weather?

[cubrinj]

Hey everyone, I could use some advice! I’m Greek and love cooking traditional meals at home, but my AC just broke—and with this heat, the idea of turning on the oven or simmering something on the stove feels unbearable. I usually make dishes like moussaka, soutzoukakia, or fasolakia, but right now I can’t handle the kitchen being a sauna.

Do you have any go-to Greek meals or snacks that don’t require much cooking? Maybe no-cook mezze ideas or meals that can be made early in the morning and served cold later? I’ve been living off of Greek salads, yogurt with honey, and watermelon, but I’d love some variety—especially something that still feels satisfying and a little traditional.

Any tips for keeping that Greek flavor without heating up the whole house? I’d love to hear what other people do in hot weather, especially if you’ve dealt with no AC!

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Totally hear you—Greek summer heat + no AC is no joke! When I want to keep things traditional and cool, I lean into mezze and prep-ahead dishes. Try ntakos (barley rusks topped with grated tomato, feta, oregano, and olive oil) or revithosalata—a chilled chickpea salad with lemon, olive oil, onion, and parsley.

Another favorite is melitzanosalata or tzatziki with warm pita (quickly toasted in a pan early in the morning). You can also prep stuffed tomatoes and peppers (gemista) in the early morning, then serve them room temp later—they’re even better that way.

For protein, cold grilled chicken or shrimp marinated in lemon and oregano goes great with everything. And don’t forget lahanosalata (cabbage salad with olive oil, lemon, and dill)—refreshing and crunchy.

Freeze grapes for a snack, and drink lots of soumada or iced mountain tea with lemon. Hope it cools off for you soon!