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xmelissaa

Active member
I have decided to grill the leg of lamb this year. I plan to get a bone-in leg so I know it will probably take a while.

We just aren't having enough people to do it on a spit.

I plan to prep the seasoning the night before and then grill it. The seasoning will be oil, lemon, salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic.

Does anyone have a better way? Any tips?
 
That sounds amazing—grilling a bone-in leg of lamb is such a showstopper! Your seasoning blend is spot-on—classic Greek flavors that really shine when given time to marinate. One tip: if you can, pierce the lamb and insert slivers of garlic directly into the meat before marinating. It infuses flavor deep inside and gives incredible aroma.

Also, try to bring the lamb to room temp before grilling to ensure even cooking. If your grill has a lid, use indirect heat and cook it low and slow to keep it juicy—then finish with a quick sear to get that gorgeous crust. A meat thermometer is your best friend here; aim for 130–135°F for medium-rare, then let it rest at least 20 minutes before slicing.

No spit? No problem. You’re going to wow everyone. Let us know how it turns out!
 

My Favorite Greek Ladokoulourakia Recipe

I love these olive oil cookies - I first had them in Greece and have been making them ever since.

Ingredients:​

  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground cloves (optional, but I love it)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 4 to 4½ cups all-purpose flour
  • Optional: sesame seeds for topping

Instructions:​

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should not stick to your hands.
  4. Shape into small ropes (~4–5 inches) and form into twists or rings.
  5. Place on baking sheet. Optional: brush with a little orange juice and sprinkle sesame seeds.
  6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Is kalamaki the same as souvlaki?

So I was out with some Greek friends the other night, and one of them ordered kalamaki. I figured it was just another version of souvlaki, but they gave me that “you clearly don’t know” look. Now I’m wondering, what’s the actual difference? I’ve always thought souvlaki was the catch-all term for grilled meat on a stick, but they acted like kalamaki is its own thing.

Is it a regional thing? Is kalamaki a type of souvlaki, or are they completely different? Does it depend on whether it’s served on a stick, in pita, or on a plate? It seems like the same thing to me, but there might be some differences?

Good Meze for Outdoor Barbecue?

I’m Greek and love to cook traditional food, especially when the weather’s nice and we can eat outside! I often host outdoor dinner parties with a grill going and a table full of friends and family. I’m looking for ideas for meze that hold up well outdoors while everyone’s mingling and waiting for the main meal to be ready.

I usually do the basics like tzatziki, olives, and pita, but I’d love to add a few more options that can sit out for a bit without wilting or drying out. Ideally, things that don’t need to be piping hot or refrigerated immediately—especially since I like the relaxed, come-and-go vibe during grilling.

What are your go-to Greek starters or finger foods for an outdoor setting?

Greek Meal Prepping Tips?

I love cooking Greek food and do it often, but let’s be honest, some of our favorite dishes take forever to prepare. Between layering, slow simmering, and fresh chopping, it’s not always realistic on a busy weeknight. I’m starting to think about meal prepping Greek-style, but I’m not sure where to begin.

What traditional dishes work well for prepping ahead? I’m hoping for healthy options—think veggies, legumes, lean meats, maybe even Lenten dishes. Can you freeze moussaka or fasolada? Do you pre-roll dolmades and just steam them later? How do you store horta or prep spanakopita in advance without it getting soggy?

I’d love to hear what works for you, like batch cooking ideas, tips for storing or reheating, or any Greek dishes that get betterafter a day or two!

Hortopita or Spanakopita without Cheese?

I’m hoping to get some advice from anyone who’s made hortopita or spanakopita without cheese. A family member recently developed a dairy intolerance, and I’d love to be able to make a pie she can enjoy too. Traditionally I use feta or mizithra, so I’m a bit unsure how it will turn out without the cheese—will it still taste good?

Have you ever made a vegan or dairy-free version of these pies? What do you add to make up for the missing richness and saltiness from the cheese? Are there herbs, extra olive oil, or maybe lemon juice that help brighten the flavor?

I’d really appreciate any tips—especially from people who’ve done it successfully. Would love to keep the flavors authentic and satisfying while making it friendly for her diet. Thanks so much in advance!
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