Traditional Greek cooking is based on fresh seasonal vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, herbs, spices, and olive oil - perfect for vegetarians (and often for vegans as well). Creating delicious and authentic Greek meals that meet vegetarian guidelines is a snap. These recipe favorites will get you started - and not a salad in the bunch! Listed alphabetically.
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Batter-Fried Zucchini - Kolokythakia Tiganita
peredniankina / Getty Images
Soda water in the batter keeps these thin slices of fried zucchini light and crispy. A simple recipe, serve these as an appetizer or meze , or a side dish.
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Hummus with Tahini
The Spruce
The origins of this dish can be found in antiquity. A classic Middle Eastern dish, it is a familiar sight at Greek restaurants around the world (although not in Greece). Chickpeas, tahini (a paste made from toasted sesame seeds), olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice combine to create a dip to serve before or with a meal.
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Spinach & Cheese Pie - Spanakopita
The Spruce
Spinach and cheese cooked in flaky phyllo pastry - a Greek classic and a favorite appetizer, snack, side dish, or main dish. There are several versions of spanakaopita, including without cheese, but this one is our favorite and the quickest to make.
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Stuffed Peppers with Bulgur & Basil - Piperies Yemistes me Pligouri
Azurita / Getty Images
If you aren't familiar with bulgur (often spelled "bulghur"), it is partially hulled wheat that has been soaked, steamed, dried, then crushed—and it can basically be used wherever you might use rice. It cooks quickly—like rice—and it has a wonderful nutty flavor. Bulgur is one of our favorite grains, and if you haven't tried it, this might be the perfect opportunity.