Greek Dishes for Beginner Cooks?

[mastichas09]

I have a friend who’s new to Greek cooking and really excited to learn some traditional dishes, so I’m looking for some ideas on what to teach her first! Since she’s just starting out, I want to pick recipes that are straightforward but still capture the heart of Greek flavors.

I’m thinking Greek Salad (Horiatiki) is a good choice – it’s fresh, colorful, and easy to make, with basic ingredients like tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta. I’d also like to teach her Tzatziki, which is simple and great to know since it pairs well with so many dishes.

For a main, maybe Chicken Souvlaki? It’s easy to prepare, doesn’t need fancy ingredients, and gives a great introduction to Greek seasonings. If anyone has other suggestions for beginner-friendly Greek dishes or tips for teaching a non-Greek cook, I’d love to hear them.

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Your choices are spot on for a beginner! Horiatiki, Tzatziki, and Chicken Souvlaki are all simple yet packed with authentic Greek flavors. For another easy dish, try Spanakopita Triangles (spinach and feta pastries). Using store-bought phyllo simplifies the process, and they’re a great introduction to layering and Greek filling flavors.

Another idea is Gemista (stuffed tomatoes and peppers). They’re a bit more hands-on but straightforward, and they highlight classic Greek seasonings like parsley, mint, and oregano.

For tips, focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and ripe produce—they’re the heart of Greek cooking. Encourage her to taste and adjust seasonings as she goes. Greek food is about simplicity and balance, so it’s a great cuisine for learning!