Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these 18 flavorful Greek appetizer recipes! From classic spanakopita and tzatziki to innovative twists like lamb and feta phyllo cups, we’ve got you covered for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or an elaborate party, these delicious Greek dishes are sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors of Greece, highlighting popular recipes that are perfect for snacking, socializing, and indulging in. From savory and tangy to rich and creamy, each bite-sized treat is bursting with flavor and authenticity. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to sink your teeth into these mouthwatering Greek appetizer recipes!
Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)
This classic Greek dish is a savory pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, and spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of filo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw filo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach leaves, feta cheese, onion, parsley, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place a sheet of filo dough on a flat surface and brush with olive oil.
5. Spread the spinach mixture evenly over the filo dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Roll up the filo dough tightly, starting from one end.
7. Place the rolled pie seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush the top of the pie with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tzatziki with Warm Pita Bread
Experience the perfect Greek-inspired snack or appetizer with this refreshing tzatziki recipe, served alongside warm pita bread for dipping. This classic combination is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5-7 minutes or until soft and pliable.
5. Serve tzatziki sauce alongside warm pita bread for dipping.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + 5-7 minutes for pita bread
Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Dolmades, also known as stuffed grape leaves, are a popular Middle Eastern dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. This recipe provides a classic combination of rice, herbs, and spices wrapped in tender grape leaves.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Rinse the grape leaves and remove any stems.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, dill, scallions, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Arrange the dolmades seam-side down in a single layer in a saucepan or baking dish.
Cooking Time:
– 30-40 minutes at a simmer on low heat
– Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes
Greek Feta Cheese Dip
Add a tangy touch to your gathering with this creamy Greek Feta Cheese Dip. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside crackers and vegetables, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) block of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine feta cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Keftedes (Greek Meatballs)
Get ready to savor the flavors of Greece with these juicy and flavorful meatballs! Keftedes, or Greek Meatballs, are a staple dish that’s perfect for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or enjoying as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll them around to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tyropita (Greek Cheese Pie)
A classic Greek savory pie, Tyropita is a comforting delight filled with feta cheese and spinach. This recipe yields a deliciously flaky crust and gooey cheese filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, spinach, and beaten egg.
4. Layer 5-6 sheets of phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
5. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
6. Top with remaining phyllo sheets, brushing with olive oil as before.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Melitzanosalata (Eggplant Dip)
A classic Greek appetizer, Melitzanosalata is a flavorful and refreshing dip made with roasted eggplants, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Perfect for snacking or serving as an accompaniment to pita bread or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and collapsed.
4. Allow the eggplants to cool slightly, then peel off the skin and chop the flesh into small pieces.
5. In a bowl, combine the roasted eggplant, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Stuffed Peppers
Savor the flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe! Tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, tomatoes, feta cheese, and herbs will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and place on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlicky Hummus with Olives
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and savory dip, infused with the bold flavors of garlic and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3-4 pitted green or black olives, chopped
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Stir in salt and chopped olives.
5. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + blending time
Greek Marinated Olives
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this simple recipe for Greek Marinated Olives!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted green or black olives (or a combination of both)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the olives to the marinade and stir to combine.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Before serving, remove the olives from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
Cooking Time:
– Marinating time: 4 hours or overnight
Enjoy your delicious Greek Marinated Olives as an appetizer or snack!
Fried Zucchini Fritters (Kolokithokeftedes)
These crispy and delicious fritters are a popular Greek appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. Made with grated zucchini, onions, and spices, they’re easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized zucchini, grated
– 1/2 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, chopped onion, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the lightly beaten egg to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties or fritters.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Greek Shrimp Saganaki
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this shrimp saganaki recipe, a twist on the classic tomato-based dish. This quick and easy recipe combines succulent shrimp with feta cheese, kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a mouthwatering seafood delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in grape tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lamb and Feta Phyllo Cups
These crispy phyllo cups filled with tender lamb and creamy feta cheese make for an impressive appetizer or snack. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be serving up a flavorful and elegant treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together lamb, feta cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into squares.
5. Place a spoonful of the lamb mixture onto each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the phyllo squares over the filling to form triangles or cups.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Tomato Fritters (Domatokeftedes)
Greek Tomato Fritters (Domatokeftedes) are a classic Mediterranean appetizer or snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With fresh tomatoes, onions, and herbs, these crispy fritters are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, grated
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated tomatoes, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
2. Beat in the egg until well combined.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Note: For an extra crispy coating, chill the fritter mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before frying.
Grilled Halloumi Skewers
Transform traditional halloumi cheese into a mouthwatering street food-inspired snack with this easy recipe. Perfect for parties, barbecues, or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 halloumi cheese slices
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
– Bamboo skewers (6-8 inches long)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Brush both sides of halloumi slices with the garlic-lemon mixture.
4. Thread 2-3 cheese slices onto each skewer, leaving a small gap between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is slightly charred and softened.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Greek Chickpea Salad Bites
These bite-sized treats are a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors and textures, featuring creamy chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy olives. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of mini puff pastry cups (about 20-25 cups)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together chickpeas, red onion, feta cheese, and olives.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and sprinkle with oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chickpea mixture into each puff pastry cup.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame
Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe!
This sweet and savory appetizer is perfect for your next gathering or dinner party. The combination of creamy feta, drizzled honey, and crunchy sesame seeds creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of feta cheese (about 6 ounces)
– 1/4 cup of honey
– 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the feta block on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the feta, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top of the feta and honey mixture.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the sesame seeds to help them toast in the oven.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the feta is slightly softened and the sesame seeds are toasted.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Cucumber Bites
These bite-sized snacks are perfect for hot summer days or as a light and refreshing addition to any meal. With the cooling effect of cucumber and the tanginess of Greek yogurt, these bites are sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Add the diced cucumber to the bowl and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh dill if desired.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is best served chilled.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Greece with these 18 mouth-watering appetizer recipes! From savory pies and dips to refreshing salads and skewers, there’s something for every occasion. Spanakopita, Tzatziki with Warm Pita Bread, and Dolmades are just a few of the classic Greek dishes on offer. Meatballs, cheese pies, and stuffed peppers add some variety, while melitzanosalata (eggplant dip) and garlicky hummus provide creamy contrasts. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick snack, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
