Greece, officially known as Hellenic Republic, is a country made up of a peninsula and a group of islands in southeastern Europe. Greece is often called the Cradle of Western Civilization because of its significant contributions to the world. The Greeks developed democracy, made significant science discoveries, created extensive works on philosophy and art, and wrote stories and plays that are still performed today. Greece is also known for its lovely beaches and hearty dishes.

Greek Food

Speaking of food, the Greek cuisine is a Mediterranean cuisine similar to the traditional cuisines of Italy and the Balkans. The common ingredients in contemporary Greek dishes are meat, fish, vegetables, grains, olive oil and wine. If you happen to visit Greece, make sure you sample some of the country’s toothsome dishes.

Spanakopita is Greek spinach pie with feta cheese, onions and herbs in a crispy and flaky filo dough.

Dolmades refers to rolled young grape leaves stuffed with rice, vegetables and herbs.

Kolokythokeftedes is a Greek appetizer made of zucchini, feta, ouzo, egg, garlic, onion and herbs. The mixture of ingredients is formed into balls or patties and fried.

Souvlaki is a Greek specialty made of tender pieces of meat grilled on a skewer. It is served in different ways: with grilled bread, in a slightly grilled pita with garnishes and sauces, or on a dinner plate often paired with fried potatoes.

Moussaka is a popular Greek baked dish made of potato, eggplant, minced meat, tomato, onion, garlic, spices, cheese and béchamel sauce.

Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish with ground beef and béchamel sauce. This is similar to the Italian lasagna.

These are just some of the delicious dishes that you should try when you happen to be in Greece.