10 Greek Appetizers for the Best Mezze Spread
Greek cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and vibrant Mediterranean influence. When it comes to Greek appetizers, or mezze, Greece offers a variety of small plates that are perfect for sharing. From creamy dips to crispy pastries, these Greek appetizers add a delicious touch to any gathering.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 must-try Greek appetizers that you can easily prepare at home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Appetizers
1. What is a Greek mezze spread?
A mezze spread consists of small, flavorful dishes served before a meal or as a light meal. It includes dips, cheeses, olives, bread, and hot or cold appetizers.
2. What are common ingredients in Greek appetizers?
Greek appetizers often include olive oil, feta cheese, yogurt, garlic, lemon, oregano, phyllo pastry, and fresh vegetables.
3. What drinks pair well with Greek appetizers?
Greek appetizers go well with ouzo, retsina wine, or a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko.
Now, let’s explore 10 delicious Greek appetizers that will bring the taste of Greece to your table.
1. Tzatziki (Greek Yogurt and Cucumber Dip)
Tzatziki is a cool, creamy dip made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and fresh dill. It’s refreshing and pairs well with grilled meats, pita bread, and vegetables.
How to Make It:
- Grate and drain cucumber to remove excess water.
- Mix with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
- Chill before serving for the best flavor.
Serving Tip:
Enjoy with warm pita or fresh-cut veggies.
2. Spanakopita (Spinach and Feta Phyllo Pastries)
Spanakopita is a crispy, flaky pastry filled with a savory mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. It’s a classic Greek dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or snack.
How to Make It:
- Sauté spinach, onions, and garlic, then mix with crumbled feta and fresh dill.
- Layer between buttery phyllo sheets, then bake until golden brown.
Serving Tip:
Serve warm with a side of Greek salad.
3. Melitzanosalata (Greek Eggplant Dip)
This smoky, roasted eggplant dip is rich in flavor and perfect for dipping warm pita.
How to Make It:
- Roast eggplant until soft and smoky.
- Blend with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
Serving Tip:
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.
4. Saganaki (Fried Greek Cheese)
Saganaki is a pan-fried Greek cheese appetizer, crispy on the outside and gooey inside.
How to Make It:
- Dredge kefalotyri or halloumi cheese in flour.
- Pan-fry in olive oil until golden brown.
Serving Tip:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over it before serving.
5. Keftedes (Greek Meatballs)
Greek meatballs are juicy, herb-infused, and lightly crispy, perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
How to Make It:
- Mix ground beef or lamb with onion, garlic, oregano, mint, and breadcrumbs.
- Shape into small meatballs and pan-fry until crispy.
Serving Tip:
Serve with tzatziki or a squeeze of lemon.
6. Hummus (Chickpea and Tahini Dip)
While more commonly associated with Middle Eastern cuisine, hummus is a popular part of the Greek mezze table.
How to Make It:
- Blend chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.
Serving Tip:
Garnish with paprika and olive oil and serve with pita bread.
7. Fava (Yellow Split Pea Dip)
Fava is a creamy dip made from yellow split peas, olive oil, and onions. It has a smooth texture and a slightly sweet taste.
How to Make It:
- Simmer yellow split peas with onions and garlic until soft.
- Blend with olive oil and lemon juice.
Serving Tip:
Top with capers and red onions for extra flavor.
8. Dolmadakia (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Dolmadakia are grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and lemon.
How to Make It:
- Mix cooked rice with dill, mint, and lemon juice.
- Roll in grape leaves and steam until tender.
Serving Tip:
Enjoy with a side of Greek yogurt or tzatziki.
9. Tiropita (Cheese Phyllo Pastries)
Tiropita is a savory pastry filled with a creamy cheese mixture, wrapped in flaky phyllo dough.
How to Make It:
- Blend feta, ricotta, and eggs into a creamy filling.
- Layer in phyllo dough, brush with butter, and bake.
Serving Tip:
Best served warm with a drizzle of honey.
10. Greek Olive and Feta Platter
A simple yet flavorful mezze, featuring Greek olives and blocks of creamy feta cheese.
How to Assemble It:
- Arrange a mix of Kalamata and green olives with feta cheese, olive oil, and oregano.
Final Thoughts
These 10 Greek appetizers bring the authentic flavors of Greece to your table. Whether you love crispy spanakopita, creamy tzatziki, or smoky melitzanosalata, this mezze spread will impress your guests.
Try these recipes at home and visit Chaskoza for more Mediterranean-inspired dishes!
