Which Greek dishes did you love as a kid?

[nadellii]

I’m planning a big Greek family gathering soon and there will be a lot of kids there—some of them pretty picky eaters! It got me thinking about what I used to love as a kid growing up in a Greek household.

Honestly, I was a super picky eater back then (hard to believe now!), but there were still a few dishes I always wanted seconds of. I remember loving things like koulourakia, fried meatballs (keftedakia), and avgolemono soup. Simple, comforting, and easy to eat.

Now I’m wondering, which Greek dishes did you love as a kid? I’d love to serve a few things at the gathering that will be hits with the younger crowd but still feel authentically Greek. Bonus points if they’re easy to prep ahead or good for a buffet-style setup.

 

[k_tsoukalas]

What a fun idea! I love that you’re keeping the gathering rooted in Greek tradition while thinking of the little ones. As a kid, my absolute favorites were tiropitakia (cheese-filled phyllo triangles), it's easy to eat, no weird textures, and always a crowd-pleaser. Spanakopitakia were a close second if you keep the spinach-to-cheese ratio more kid-friendly.

Keftedakia, like you mentioned, are always a hit, serve them with a side of ketchup or tzatziki for dipping. Another good one: pastitsio! It’s like Greek lasagna and usually goes over well with picky eaters, especially if you go light on the spices.

For something sweet, besides koulourakia, try loukoumades or rizogalo (Greek rice pudding). They feel like dessert but aren’t too over-the-top.

 

[Suki]

I’m planning a big Greek family gathering soon and there will be a lot of kids there—some of them pretty picky eaters! It got me thinking about what I used to love as a kid growing up in a Greek household.

Honestly, I was a super picky eater back then (hard to believe now!), but there were still a few dishes I always wanted seconds of. I remember loving things like koulourakia, fried meatballs (keftedakia), and avgolemono soup. Simple, comforting, and easy to eat.

Now I’m wondering, which Greek dishes did you love as a kid? I’d love to serve a few things at the gathering that will be hits with the younger crowd but still feel authentically Greek. Bonus points if they’re easy to prep ahead or good for a buffet-style setup.

Oh my favorite was and is Menestra! YiaYia would always make that when I would be home for a visit- I never had to request it , she just knew! Still love it to this day -of course I have many favorites but that by far was my favorite growing up- perfect comfort food!