Greek Food, Cooking and Recipe Community

Most popular home cooking dishes in Greece?

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acamp7

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I've visited Greece a few times and love how home cooking is such a central part of daily life. I’ve seen people make dishes like moussaka, fasolada (the white bean soup), and fasolakia (green beans in tomato sauce) at home, along with the ever-present Greek village salad. These meals always feel so wholesome, hearty, and rooted in tradition.

But I’m curious—what have you seen in Greek homes or among Greek families? What are the go-to dishes people regularly cook, either on weekdays or for Sunday lunch? Are there regional favorites that pop up more often in certain areas?

Whether you live in Greece or have spent time there, I’d love to hear your observations on what dishes are truly staples in Greek home kitchens. Bonus points if you’ve been invited to a family gathering and got to experience homemade specialties!
 
Such a great question! I’m not Greek myself, but I’ve spent time with Greek families, and home cooking really is the heart of it all. Weekday staples often include ladera—vegetable-based dishes cooked in olive oil like bamies (okra), fasolakia, and gigantes (giant baked beans). Simple, nourishing, and filling. Fasolada is a winter favorite, and lentil soup (fakes) shows up often too.

For Sunday lunch, it’s common to see roast lamb or chicken with lemon potatoes, sometimes a tray of pastitsio (Greek lasagna), and of course, a huge Greek salad with feta and oregano. In Crete, I saw more use of wild greens, barley rusks, and fresh mizithra cheese. On the islands, especially during fasting periods, people get really creative with vegan versions of classics.
 
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