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auroracoor1

Active member
I love experimenting with Greek flavors in my kitchen, but I’ve hit a bit of a roadblock with dill. So far, I’ve only used it in tzatziki, which I absolutely adore. However, I know this herb plays a much bigger role in Greek cuisine, and I’d love to expand my repertoire.

Do you have any favorite recipes or tips for using dill? I’ve heard it’s great in spinach pies (spanakopita) and maybe even in soups? Are there other traditional Greek dishes where dill shines?

Also, do you use fresh dill exclusively, or is dried dill just as good in certain recipes?

Thanks in advance for any advice or inspiration you can share! I’m hoping to unlock the full potential of this amazing herb in my cooking. Thanks so much!
 
Dill is such a versatile herb in Greek cooking—you’re going to love exploring its many uses! Here are some ideas to inspire you:
  1. Spanakopita and Pies: Fresh dill is essential in spanakopita and other savory pies, adding a bright, aromatic flavor that complements spinach and feta beautifully.
  2. Soups: Dill shines in “avgolemono” (egg-lemon soup) with greens or in light vegetable soups. It pairs especially well with zucchini and potatoes.
  3. Salads and Sides: Sprinkle fresh dill on Greek-style roasted potatoes, green bean salad, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for an extra layer of flavor.
  4. Stuffed Vegetables: Add dill to the rice filling for stuffed peppers or tomatoes (gemista) for a traditional touch.
While fresh dill is preferred for its vibrant flavor, dried dill works well in cooked dishes like stews and soups. Store fresh dill in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel so it will last longer...
 

What is the perfect skordalia texture?

Lately I’ve been experimenting with skordalia, and I’m starting to realize just how many different versions there really are. Some people swear by a silky, almost whipped texture, while others prefer it thick and rustic, the kind you can practically stand a spoon in. I’ve tried both bread-based and potato-based versions, and the results couldn’t be more different. Bread seems to give it a lighter, fluffier feel, while potatoes make it dense and hearty.

But here’s my question for everyone who makes this regularly: What is the perfect texture supposed to be? Is true skordalia meant to be smooth and airy, or thick and substantial? Should the garlic be fully integrated, or is a tiny bit of graininess acceptable? I know it's personal preference, too.

Potatoes in Moussaka?

For some reason, my family’s version of moussaka has never included potatoes, and I’m starting to wonder if I’ve been missing something all these years! We’ve always layered it with eggplant, a bit of zucchini, meat sauce, and béchamel, no potatoes. But lately I’ve seen so many recipes (especially from northern Greece) that add a layer of sliced or fried potatoes at the bottom, and people swear it gives the dish more structure and heartiness.

For those who make moussaka regularly — do you include potatoes? If so, where do you place them in the layering: bottom, middle, or alternating with the eggplant? Do they change the texture or make it too heavy? I love the idea of experimenting but don’t want to lose that light, custardy feel of our version. I’d love to hear how your families make it and whether the potato layer is a must!

Greek things to do with butternut squash?

Hi everyone! I’m curious about traditional (or regional) Greek ways to cook with butternut squash. My aunt used to make an incredible kolokythopita with it — sweet, earthy, and a little reminiscent of butternut squash pie filling, but wrapped in crisp phyllo instead of a pastry crust. It was one of those dishes that tasted both rustic and festive at the same time.

I’m wondering what else Greeks typically do with butternut squash, especially in home cooking. Are there savory versions of the pie? Any stews, ladera, or casseroles that feature it? Does anyone use it in soups, risottos, or baked dishes? I’d also love to know if certain regions in Greece cook with butternut squash more often than others.

Would love to hear your ideas, family recipes, and regional traditions!

What makes the perfect pastitsio?

I know everyone’s got their own way of making pastitsio, and I’m curious what you all think makes it perfect. I’m Greek and have been making it for years, but I swear every family has a different take, even just within my circle of friends, no two versions are the same!

For me, the key is a good, fluffy krema on top, which makes it not too dense, not too thin — and a meat layer that’s rich but not overly heavy. I also like just a hint of tomato sauce mixed in with the meat; it gives it depth and color without turning it into makaronia me kima.

Do you prefer a spiced meat sauce or something milder? Do you bake it until it’s firm or leave it soft and creamy? I’d love to hear your tricks, family secrets, and regional twists!

Favorite Herbs for Dolmades?

I’ve been experimenting with different herb combinations for dolmades lately, and I’m curious what everyone else uses. Traditionally I’ve seen recipes with dill, parsley, mint, or even a mix of all three — but I’ve found that mint really makes the flavor pop. It gives the filling such a fresh, aromatic lift that balances the rice and olive oil beautifully.

Sometimes I’ll add a touch of dill for depth, or parsley if I want something more earthy, but mint always seems to bring everything together. I’ve also noticed some regions lean heavily on dill, while others skip it entirely.

Do you find that certain herbs make your dolmades taste more authentic or closer to how your family used to make them? Do you adjust depending on whether they’re meat-filled or vegetarian?
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