Vegan | Nηστίσιμο

Spanakorizo | Lemon & Dill Version I grew up eating spanakorizo one way, with tomato. That was the version on our table, the one I associated with comfort, with childhood, with big spoonfuls straight from the pot. But this, the lemon version, deserves just as much love. Bright, fragrant, and rich with olive oil and dill, this spanakorizo feels lighter in colour but not in flavour. It’s vibrant. Fresh. And deeply satisfying in its own way. Where the tomato version leans warm and hearty, this one leans zesty and herbaceous. The lemon lifts the spinach, the dill perfumes the whole dish, and the olive oil brings it all together with that unmistakable Greek generosity. A Lenten Staple Spanakorizo is one of those dishes that shines during Lent. Like many Lenten recipes, it’s rich in olive oil, not by accident. Without meat or dairy, olive oil becomes the body of the […]

Gigantes Plaki – Greek Baked Lima Beans with Tomato, Olive Oil & Herbs There’s something so deeply comforting about a tray of Gigantes Plaki straight from the oven, bubbling with rich tomato sauce, glistening with olive oil, with tender lima beans. This is Greek comfort food at its most wholesome, and while it’s entirely plant-based, it’s every bit as hearty and satisfying as a meat-based dish. Traditionally served in Greek tavernas, especially in the countryside, Gigantes Plaki is often enjoyed warm or at room temperature as part of a mezze spread or simply on its own with crusty bread to mop up all that richly flavoured oil and sauce. It’s a dish that proudly embodies the simplicity and generosity of the Greek table. A Lenten Favourite This dish is particularly beloved during Lent (Sarakosti) in Greece, when many people follow a vegan diet, abstaining from meat, dairy, and even oil […]

Manestra: Greek Orzo in Tomato Sauce – Comfort in a Bowl There are some recipes that feel like a warm hug in food form—and Manestra is exactly that. Made with tender orzo pasta, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, and gently infused with garlic, onion, white wine, and bay leaves, this simple one-pot dish is a staple in many Greek homes. It’s humble, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Whether you grew up with it or are discovering it for the first time, Manestra is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, from toddlers to grandparents. It’s deeply satisfying, but easy enough to make on a weeknight with pantry staples. What is Manestra? Manestra is a classic Greek dish made with kritharaki (orzo)—a rice-shaped pasta that’s often used in Greek stews and baked dishes like Giouvetsi. But unlike baked casseroles, manestra is simmered on the stovetop, resulting in a […]

Greek Artichokes & Peas in Red Sauce – Aγκινάρες με Aρακά Kοκκινιστό There’s something so comforting about a pot of kokkinisto bubbling away on the stove — the scent of olive oil, garlic, and oregano filling the kitchen is enough to make anyone feel at home. One of my favourite variations of this style is Aγκινάρες με Aρακά Kοκκινιστό — tender artichoke hearts and sweet green peas slow-simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce until everything melts together into a truly luscious dish. This is what we call a ladero in Greek cooking — meaning it’s oil-based, with olive oil playing a starring role. I don’t hold back here; the richness of the oil is what gives the sauce its depth and silkiness. The base is simple: sautéed onion and garlic in a generous pour of olive oil. Then comes a good splash of quality tomato passata, a pinch of oregano, […]

Aginares Me Araka Al La Polita: A Taste of Tradition with a Rich History Aginares Me Araka Al La Polita is a dish that beautifully represents Greek cuisine’s deep-rooted connection to the land, its seasonal ingredients, and the country’s long history of plant-based eating. The name “Al La Polita” roughly translates to “in the city style” or “in the manner of the city,” with “Polita” referring to the city of Constantinople, which was the historic capital of the Byzantine Empire. This dish, in essence, brings together simple yet flavourful ingredients and preparation methods that have been enjoyed for centuries across Greece. This hearty and satisfying meal is made with tender artichokes, peas, carrots, and a zesty lemon-based sauce that elevates the flavours to a whole new level. It’s a beautiful dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a protein of your choice. And let me tell […]

Tourlou Tourlou: The Ultimate Greek Veggie Bake If you’re craving a dish that combines vibrant Mediterranean flavours and is as versatile as your fridge allows, look no further than Tourlou Tourlou. This Greek vegetable bake, which translates to “mixed up,” is the perfect way to use whatever fresh veggies you have on hand. It’s a delicious, hearty dish that’s simple to make and filled with the rich flavours of olive oil, tomato, garlic, onion, and oregano – the ultimate Mediterranean comfort food. What Is Tourlou Tourlou? At its core, Tourlou Tourlou is all about flexibility. It’s a dish that invites you to be creative in the kitchen, using whatever vegetables are in season or just happen to be lingering in your fridge. The ingredients are roasted in a fragrant, olive oil-based sauce with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and oregano. The result? A deeply satisfying, savoury bake that’s perfect on its own […]

Mushroom Stifado: A Lenten Take on the Classic Greek Dish Greek cuisine is known for its rich and hearty flavours, especially in dishes like stifado, a traditional Greek stew typically made with beef or lamb, slow-cooked with aromatic herbs, onions, and a tangy tomato-based sauce. But what happens when you want to enjoy this classic Greek comfort food during Lent, or if you’re following a vegan diet? Enter Mushroom Stifado – a delicious, plant-based version that captures all the rich, comforting flavours of the original but with a satisfying vegan twist. This Lenten Mushroom Stifado is not only an incredible way to adapt a beloved dish for those observing fasting traditions, but it’s also a flavourful, healthy, and hearty option for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless, yet equally delicious, meal. The mushrooms take the place of meat, offering a meaty texture and an earthy flavour that blends perfectly with […]

Kolokithokeftedes: A Delicious Lenten Twist on Greek Pumpkin Fritters When it comes to fritters, nothing quite beats my beloved Kolokithokeftedes—Greek pumpkin fritters that combine fresh, vibrant flavours with a satisfying crunch. These golden bites of heaven are always a favourite, and while my vegetarian version, packed with Greek cheeses, holds a special place in my heart, this Lenten/vegan version is just as delicious and fresh. It’s a recipe that’s full of flavour, easy to make, and perfectly suited for the Lenten period. The Lenten Twist: No Eggs, Just Flavour My Kolokithokeftedes are usually made with feta or kefalotyri cheese, and egg to help bind everything together. However, this Lenten (and vegan) version replaces the egg with aqua fava, the water from canned chickpeas. It’s a great alternative, not only for those avoiding eggs but also for those looking for a healthier, plant-based option without compromising on taste. The Key Ingredients […]

Fasolakia Me Patates: A Simple and Flavourful Vegan Delight Greek cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients, simple flavours, and the heart of Mediterranean cooking. One dish that captures the essence of these flavours is Fasolakia me Patates, a classic comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying. Known as a ladera dish, this Mediterranean favourite is made with green beans, potatoes, olive oil, and a rich tomato sauce. The vegetables cook until they are tender, soaking up all the wonderful flavours of the sauce, making each bite incredibly delicious. What is Fasolakia Me Patates? At its core, Fasolakia me Patates is a simple but delicious dish made from two humble ingredients: green beans (fasolakia) and potatoes (patates). These ingredients are cooked in a generous amount of olive oil and combined with a vibrant tomato sauce that enhances their natural flavours. The olive oil and tomato sauce give the dish a […]

Lagana: A Delicious Greek Tradition for Clean Monday Lagana is a traditional Greek flatbread that’s as rich in history as it is in flavour. This rustic bread holds a special place in Greek culture, particularly during Clean Monday—the first day of Lent in the Greek Orthodox Church. While it may not be as globally recognised as baklava or moussaka, Lagana has a devoted following, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Greek tradition during Lent. The History of Lagana Lagana is most famously associated with Clean Monday, which marks the beginning of the 40-day fasting period of Lent for Greek Orthodox Christians. During Lent, many foods are restricted, such as dairy, meat, and eggs. However, Clean Monday is a time for celebration, where Greeks prepare to cleanse their bodies and souls for the Lenten season. Lagana is a food that can be enjoyed on Clean Monday when […]

Greek lentil soup, or Fakies, is a warm, hearty dish that embodies the essence of simple, authentic Greek cooking. Made with just a few humble ingredients—lentils, onions, garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and a splash of vinegar —this soup is rich in flavour and nutrition, offering comfort in every spoonful. The lentils, naturally packed with protein and fiber, create a thick and satisfying base, while the olive oil adds a touch of richness, characteristic of Greek cuisine. The onions and garlic bring depth to the soup, and the tomatoes, often in their simplest form—either fresh or canned—add a subtle sweetness, and a little tang from the splash of vinegar to finish the dish. This soup is not just delicious, but incredibly nourishing, providing a perfect balance of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plant-based protein. It’s vegan, perfect for the Lenten periods, filling, and packed with antioxidants, making it both a healthy […]