What are some traditional Greek dishes that can be included in a Greek feast for a dinner party?
Opa! Try This Authentic Greek Feast for your Next Dinner Party
If you’re looking to impress your guests with a hearty and flavorful meal, why not try an authentic Greek feast? With a range of dishes that feature the freshest ingredients, and bold flavors, this cuisine is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to spoil your family, this is the perfect meal. Not sure where to start? Here are some delicious recipes to get you started.
Appetizer: Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a classic Greek dish made with spinach and feta cheese. It is wrapped in phyllo dough and baked until crispy and golden brown. This dish is perfect for an appetizer or snack, and is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and flaky texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 lb. feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 lb. phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, parsley, dill, and egg.
- Layer 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough on a cutting board or work surface, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you go.
- Spoon a layer of the spinach mixture onto the phyllo dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
- Roll up the phyllo dough, sealing the edges with additional melted butter.
- Repeat until all the spinach mixture is used up.
- Bake spanakopita on a baking sheet for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Main Course: Souvlaki
Souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish that features marinated and grilled meat on skewers. It is typically made with pork, but can also be made with chicken or beef. This juicy and flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion, and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. boneless pork loin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red onion, sliced into thin rings
- 8-10 skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the pork cubes and onion slices onto the skewers.
- Grill the skewers for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the pork is cooked through and charred in spots.
- Serve hot with tzatziki sauce and pita bread.
Dessert: Baklava
Baklava is a sweet and sticky pastry made with a combination of nuts and phyllo dough, and soaked in honey syrup. It is a traditional Greek dessert that is perfect for any occasion, and is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 lb. unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups finely chopped walnuts
- 2 cups finely chopped almonds
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, almonds, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Layer 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough in a 9×13 inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you go.
- Sprinkle a layer of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.
- Repeat layers of phyllo dough and nuts, until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of phyllo dough on top.
- Cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes with a sharp knife.
- Bake the baklava for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
- In a small saucepan, heat honey, water, and lemon juice over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the honey is dissolved.
- Pour the honey syrup over the hot baklava, making sure to cover all the pieces.
- Allow the baklava to cool completely before serving.
Your Greek feast is sure to be a hit with your guests, thanks to these delicious recipes. From spanakopita to souvlaki to baklava, you’ve got all the classic dishes covered. Don’t forget to serve with plenty of extra tzatziki sauce and pita bread, and raise a glass of ouzo to toast your success. Opa!