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Healthy Greek Foods to Eat During the Holidays

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GreekGirlCooks

GreekGirlCooks

Member
The holiday season is coming up and I know I will be eating decadently while out and about - but not every day. So, I am brainstorming ways I can eat healthy in between gatherings.

Greek Salad

Greek Salad is one of the healthiest typical Greek dishes you'll find. It's loaded with fresh veggies, including cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, all chlorophyll-rich veggies. The addition of olive oil, olives, and feta cheese also makes the dish a healthy Mediterranean source of fat. Think of it as an antioxidant powerhouse.

Grilled Seafood

Greek cuisine is known for its grilled seafood, which is an excellent source of lean protein. When grilling seafood, the fats convert into healthy omega-3 fatty acids. When you combine it with veggies, like tomatoes and zucchini, seasoned with herbs and sprinkled with feta cheese, the flavor profile is heightened to delightful new heights.

Dolmades

Dolmades has herbs and rice with ground beef, and then wrapped in steamed grape leaves, making it one of the most delicious and healthy Greek dishes available. Grape leaves contain glucosinolates, which are anti-carcinogenic.

Spanakopita

This Spinach and Feta Pie is a pastry that is filled with spinach, feta cheese, and eggs, all inside a light and crispy filo pastry. Spinach is rich in folate, a nutrient that helps in healthy brain development, and feta cheese, providing you with calcium and protein.

Souvlaki

Grilled skewers of marinated meat and vegetables, Souvlaki, come in many different types, which include chicken, lamb, pork, and vegetables. Whether you are a vegetarian or non-vegetarian, this dish is filled with protein and cooked veggies, a perfect combination for a healthy meal.

Greek-Salad.jpg
 
I agree about Greek salad. If you make spanakopita I would dial back on butter and maybe even make the spanakopita with olive oil.
 
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Brunch trends in Greece?

I’ve been hearing a lot about how brunch culture has taken off in Greece over the past few years, especially in places like Athens and Thessaloniki. I’d love to learn more about the latest trends—what dishes are popular, what ingredients are must-haves, and how brunch in Greece differs from the traditional “Western” style.

Are there unique Greek twists on classics, like spanakopita-inspired eggs or loukoumades for a sweet option? Do people go for traditional Greek flavors, or is it more fusion-style? I’d also love to know if there are any standout drinks—are Freddo Cappuccinos still the go-to, or are new brunch cocktails trending?

I’d love to replicate some of these ideas at home, so any insights on must-try dishes or creative Greek-inspired brunch recipes would be amazing!

Greek Boiled Greens (Horta Vrasta))

My family loves to eat this when the weather starts warming up. I thought I'd share a simple recipe:

Ingredients:
  • 1–2 large bunches of leafy greens (see types below)
  • Sea salt
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: a clove of garlic in the boiling water (for aroma)
Instructions:

Start by cleaning the greens. Trim away any tough stems or wilted leaves, then rinse the greens well in cold water. It’s best to do this in a large bowl or basin, changing the water several times to remove any dirt or sand that might be hiding between the leaves. Once clean, set them aside.

Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. If you like a subtle hint of garlic, you can add a whole clove to the water for extra aroma. Carefully add the greens to the pot—if they don’t all fit at once, add them in batches as they wilt down. Let them boil uncovered for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the type of greens and how tender you like them. They should be fully cooked but still have a nice vibrant green color.

When the greens are tender, use tongs or a strainer to remove them from the water and let them drain well.

Best Greek Snacks?

I’m curious about Greek snacking culture. When I think of Greece, I picture big meals and meze, but what about everyday snacks? What do Greeks typically grab when they’re on the go or craving something light between meals?

I’ve heard that koulouri (the sesame-covered bread ring) is a breakfast favorite, and I know tiropita (cheese pie) and spanakopita (spinach pie) are popular. But what else? Are there any must-try traditional snacks? Do Greeks snack on nuts, olives, or dried fruits often? What’s the most common sweet snack—loukoumades, baklava, or something else?

I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been to Greece or is familiar with Greek food. What are the best Greek snacks to try, whether homemade or from a bakery/street vendor?

Pitarouda - Chickpea Fritters - Recipes or Tips?

I recently visited Rhodes and fell in love with pitarouda—those delicious chickpea fritters that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. I tried them at a small taverna, and they were absolutely amazing! Now that I’m back home, I’d love to recreate them, but I can’t seem to find a good recipe.

Does anyone know how to make authentic pitarouda? If you have a recipe, I’d love for you to share it! Also, any tips on getting the texture and seasoning just right? I remember them being well-spiced, maybe with cumin or coriander, but I’m not sure.

Would love to hear from anyone who makes these at home or has tried different variations. Thanks in advance!

Greek Desserts for Easter (Pascha)?

I’m looking for some traditional Greek desserts to make for Easter (Pascha) this year. I know Tsoureki is a must, but I’d love to add a few more sweet treats to the table. Are there any classic Easter desserts that your family always makes?

I’ve heard about Galaktoboureko and Melomakarona, but are those common for Pascha, or are there more festive options? Also, any tips on making the perfect Tsoureki would be appreciated—mine always turns out too dense!

If you have any favorite recipes or recommendations for traditional or even modern Greek Easter sweets, I’d love to hear them. Bonus points for anything that pairs well with Greek coffee after the big feast.

Looking forward to your suggestions - thanks so much!
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