YIANNA’S SALAD | Lettuce, Pomegranate, Figs & Manouri
Yianna’s Salad | Lettuce, Pomegranate, Figs & Manouri Some salads are sides.This one is the reason you go back. Yianna’s Salad is the house special we always order at Seychelles in Messinia, my dad’s region. Locals simply call it “Yianna’s,” and once you try it, you understand why it has its own identity. Now, when in Greece, one should always order a village salad, horiatiki is sacred. But I must encourage you… make room for this one. It’s fresh yet indulgent, sweet yet salty, crunchy yet creamy. It captures everything I love about Greek hospitality: generosity, balance, and ingredients that speak for themselves. Crisp romaine lettuce forms the base. Jewels of pomegranate add brightness. Sweet dried figs bring depth. Thin slices of red onion give it bite. Cashews add crunch. And then, the hero, grilled manouri cheese, soft and milky inside, caramelised on the outside, broken generously over the top. […]
GREEK YOGHURT PITA BREAD
Greek Yoghurt Pita Bread Greek yoghurt has a quiet way of transforming bread. When added to pita dough, it brings softness, moisture, and a gentle tang that makes every bite feel balanced and satisfying. It enriches the dough without weighing it down, creating pita that’s tender yet structured, golden on the outside and beautifully soft within. These are the kind of pitas you tear open while still warm. The kind you stack high, fill generously, and pass around the table. Simple. Generous. Meant to be shared. The Perfect Pocket There’s something deeply satisfying about slicing into a warm pita and watching it open into a perfect pocket. That hollow centre isn’t accidental, it’s the result of well-developed dough, proper resting time, and high heat. When the pitas hit the oven, the moisture in the dough turns to steam, causing them to puff and separate inside. That’s your pocket forming. Rolling […]
CAROB DAKOS SALAD
Carob Dakos Salad, the Cretan Way There are some dishes that don’t shout for attention. They wait. They soften. They become themselves with time.Dakos is one of those dishes. This version begins not just with ingredients, but with a place: Ntourountous, a traditional bakery in Crete that still makes dakos the way it should be made, slowly, deliberately, and with deep respect for grain. Their carob dakos (paximadia) is something special. Darker in colour, earthier in flavour, and gently sweet from the natural carob flour, it carries generations of Cretan wisdom in every bite. Carob has long been part of the Cretan pantry. Once considered humble and everyday, it’s now recognised for what it really is: nourishing, grounding, and quietly complex. When added to paximadia, carob gives dakos a subtle bitterness and depth that pairs beautifully with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, and cheese. It doesn’t overpower, it anchors. This salad […]
SPANAKOTIRO KALITSOUNIA | Cretan Spinach & Feta Parcels
Cretan Kalitsounia (Spinach & Feta) I made these kalitsounia in Crete, using locally grown and home-grown ingredients, all sun-kissed by the Cretan sun. Standing in a Cretan kitchen, working with produce that had barely travelled, I understood why food there tastes the way it does: vibrant, honest, and deeply memorable. These pastries are simple, but they carry so much character. The dough is light and crisp, the filling fresh and fragrant, and every bite tastes of the place it comes from. This spinach and feta version is a classic across Crete, often made for gatherings, coffee breaks, or just because good greens are in season. Herbs play a huge role here. Dill is one of my absolute favourite herbs, and I love the softness it brings to savoury fillings. But when I can get my hands on fennel fronds, they’re even more delicious, slightly sweeter, a little more aromatic. And […]
KOLOKITHOPITA HORIS FILLO | Zucchini Slice
Kolokithopita Horis Fillo – Zucchini Pie Without Pastry, Made the Cretan Way There’s something about cooking outdoors in Crete that slows everything down. The sound of cicadas in the background, the scent of herbs warming in the sun, and the feeling that food doesn’t need to be complicated, it just needs to be real. On this day, I cooked under the shade of a grapevine, using beautiful homegrown grey zucchinis, fresh-picked herbs, and one of Crete’s finest cheeses, Graviera. With ingredients like these, you don’t need pastry or fuss. Just a few good things, a bit of time, and the joy of making something simple and delicious. Before I started, I wandered down a little stone path past a tiny church to pick fresh mint from the garden. The air was still, the cicadas were singing, and for that brief moment, there was nothing but the sound of summer. 🍋 […]
KREMYDOPITA | MYKONIAN ONION PIE | Cooking with Irini Zouganeli
Cooking with Heart in Mykonos| Irini’s Onion Pie at Villa Amra Some days stay with you forever, the scent of herbs in the air, the warmth of the island sun, and the laughter that fills a kitchen. One of those days for me was when I had the privilege of cooking alongside Irini Zouganeli, a passionate Mykonian local and chef whose love for her island’s food is contagious. At Villa Amra, surrounded by views of the Aegean, we made a dish that embodies the heart of Mykonian cuisine: a traditional onion pie (kremydopita) using local Mykonos tyrovolia cheese. A Taste of Mykonos As the pie baked, the scent of warm cheese and herbs filled the villa, and Irini shared stories of her Mykonian childhood, how every recipe carries a memory, every ingredient a story. Using local cheese and homegrown herbs, we created something truly Mykonian: food made with love and […]
KOLOKITHOKEFTEDES | Zucchini Fritters
Kolokithokeftedes – Greek Zucchini Fritters Bursting with Herbs and Summer Flavour You know how much I adore kolokithokeftedes made with pumpkin—but when zucchini is in season, there’s no way I’m passing up this version. These golden, crispy fritters are packed with fresh herbs and a double hit of cheese, making them the perfect summer meze, especially when paired with a cool bowl of tzatziki. Light, fresh, and completely addictive, they never last long on the table. Notes & Tips Don’t skip squeezing the zucchini—excess moisture is the biggest culprit behind soggy fritters. Can’t find kefalograviera? Substitute with pecorino or a sharp parmesan-style cheese. These freeze surprisingly well—layer with parchment and reheat in the oven for a crispy finish. Serve With… Tzatziki (of course!) A chilled glass of Assyrtiko or a crisp white wine Fresh tomato and cucumber salad Warm pita or crusty bread These kolokithokeftedes are summer on a plate—vibrant, […]
TIROPSOMAKIA | Greek Cheese, Zucchini & Carrot Savoury Muffins
Greek-Inspired Savoury Muffins with Zucchini, Carrot & Cheese (Tiropsomo-Style) These savoury muffins are a go-to in our home — especially when it comes to lunchbox prep. Whether it’s for school snacks, work lunches, or weekend outings, they’re always a hit with kids and adults alike. Soft, cheesy, packed with veggies, and full of Greek-inspired flavour, they strike that perfect balance between nourishing and delicious. They’re my twist on tiropsomo (Greek cheese bread), loaded with grated zucchini and carrot for moisture, three kinds of cheese, and fresh herbs. The batter comes together in one bowl and bakes up beautifully golden with a little sesame crunch on top. Why You’ll Love These Muffins: Lunchbox-friendly and easy to pack Full of Mediterranean flavours from dill, mint, and feta A clever way to use up extra veggies No mixer needed — just one bowl Freeze well for batch cooking Tips & Variations: Adjust the […]
OLIVE & FETA ALEVROPITA – Savoury Slice
A Savoury Herb, Feta & Olive Bake — My Go-To Add-to-Bowl Favourite There’s nothing quite like a good “add to bowl” recipe — simple, satisfying, and packed with flavour. This savoury bake has become one of my favourites, and it ticks every box: quick to throw together, bursting with bold Mediterranean flavours, and perfect for sharing (or not!). The magic is in the pairing — salty Kalamata olives, creamy crumbled feta, and a generous mix of fresh dill and mint. It’s the kind of combo that feels a little fancy, yet familiar and comforting at the same time. Even better? You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry or fridge. Make It Your Own One of the best things about this slice is how adaptable it is. This herby, cheesy version is my personal favourite, but feel free to play around! Try adding: Sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness […]
MANESTRA | Greek Orzo Pasta in Tomato Sauce
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 […]
PATATES ME AVGA | Potatoes & Eggs Fried in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Patates me Avga – A rustic, crispy, golden dish that tastes like home. There’s something timeless about the way Greek kitchens can turn a few simple ingredients into a meal that warms you from the inside out. Patates me Avga—fried potatoes with eggs—is one of those dishes. Humble, effortless, and yet so satisfying, it’s the kind of food you throw together without a recipe, but end up craving again and again. At its heart, this dish is just potatoes fried in good olive oil, eggs poured over top, and a finishing touch of crumbled feta and oregano. But when done right, it’s magic: crispy edges, soft centers, golden egg, salty cheese—every bite is full of texture and flavour. A Taste of My Childhood Whenever I make Patates me Avga, I’m reminded of my Yiayia Maria’s sfougato—a rustic Greek-style omelet she’d whip up with whatever she had on hand. Potatoes, zucchini, […]
SFAKIANI PITA | Cretan Pan Fried Pita filled with Mizithra Served with Honey
Sfakiani Pita – The Sweet & Savoury Treasure of Crete Or should I say, Sfachiani pitaaa 🤌 — because when you’ve tasted it fresh from the pan in the villages of Crete, the pronunciation comes with a little extra love. This simple but utterly divine flatbread filled with creamy cheese and finished with a drizzle of local thyme honey was one of the culinary highlights of my time in Crete. We kept ordering it again and again — and every time it arrived, warm and golden, it felt like a gift. What Is Sfakiani Pita? Sfakiani Pita (Σφακιανή πίτα) hails from Sfakia, a rugged and beautiful region in southern Crete, known for its proud mountain traditions, resilient people, and some of the island’s most unique foods. This isn’t your usual layered or fluffy pita — it’s thin, pan-fried, and filled with a tangy, creamy cheese like xynomyzithra, a local sour […]
MELITZANES SAGANAKI ME PETIMEZI | Baked Eggplants with Feta Cheese and Grape Syrup
Melitzanes Saganaki – Baked Eggplants with Feta and Grape Molasses There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of eggplants roasting in the oven — it always takes me back to long summer afternoons in the village, where the air is filled with the scent of slow-cooked tomatoes or anything kokkinsto. This dish, Melitzanes Saganaki, is one of those simple, rustic recipes that relies entirely on the quality of its ingredients — sweet summer tomatoes, creamy feta, silky eggplant, and a drizzle of velvety grape molasses to tie it all together. This version is inspired by my family’s table, where eggplants were never just a side dish. They were the main event — roasted until buttery soft, cradling a rich tomato sauce, and topped with salty feta and a touch of sweetness. The addition of grape molasses (petimezi) might surprise some, but trust me, it adds an earthy depth that makes […]
TZATZIKI – Greek Yoghurt, Cucumber & Garlic Dip
Tzatziki – The Cool, Creamy Dip That Goes With Everything There’s something undeniably satisfying about a chilled bowl of tzatziki. Whether it’s tucked into a warm pita, served alongside grilled meats, or used as a dip for crisp vegetables, this creamy Greek classic brings a burst of freshness to any meal. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple to make and endlessly adaptable. I love how versatile tzatziki is. It’s light yet flavourful, cooling yet bold—and works just as beautifully with a summer BBQ as it does with a hearty winter roast. It’s a must-have in a gyro, perfect beside a plate of souvlaki, or even spread onto toast with sliced tomatoes. Really, once you make a batch, you’ll find ways to enjoy it all day long. Tzatziki Is All About Balance (And Personal Taste!) What I love most about making tzatziki at home is that it’s not a rigid […]
BOUYIOURDI – Spicy Feta Dip
Bouyiourdi – A Spicy Greek Feta Dip That Brings the Heat and Heart of Greece If you’ve ever sat down at a Greek taverna and ordered a spread of dips and small plates, you may have been lucky enough to discover Bouyiourdi—a sizzling, spicy feta dish that arrives bubbling hot, fragrant with garlic, peppers, and oregano. It’s bold, rustic, and incredibly satisfying—exactly what Greek mezze is all about. This is one of those dishes that proves how just a few humble ingredients can come together to create something unforgettable. Salty, creamy feta melts into sweet tomatoes and green peppers, while a touch of heat from chili flakes wakes up your palate. Add a good glug of olive oil and a warm piece of bread for dipping, and you’ve got yourself the perfect appetizer—or a late-night snack that hits the spot. Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavour What makes Bouyiourdi so special is […]
SFOUGATO | Yiayia Maria’s Omoletta
The Unforgettable Taste of Yiayia Maria’s Sfougato (Omelette) Food has a way of carrying memories, and for me, nothing brings back childhood nostalgia quite like my yiayia Maria’s sfougato. Known to many as a Greek-style omelette, but with a special twist, her version—sfougato or sometimes called omoletta—has become my ultimate comfort food. It’s a dish that has graced our family table for years, and the magic of it never seems to wear off. In fact, I look forward to it every single week. A Family Tradition Yiayia Maria has a way of making everything she cooks feel like an unforgettable ritual. It’s never just about the ingredients; it’s about the love and care she pours into each dish, making sure it’s perfect. Sfougato is no exception. She makes it almost every week for me, and without fail, it’s a meal I never tire of. There’s something about the combination of […]
NTOMATOKEFTEDES – Greek Tomato Fritters
Greek Tomato or Ntomatokeftedes: A taste of Santorini When it comes to Greek cuisine, there’s no shortage of dishes that are vibrant, fresh, and full of personality. But few capture the essence of Greek summer as perfectly as tomatokeftedes—crispy, golden Greek tomato fritters. This beloved dish hails from the sun-soaked island of Santorini, where tomatoes ripen in the volcanic soil and the warm breezes infuse everything with a unique sweetness. Made from ripe, juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and just a hint of onion, tomatokeftedes are an explosion of flavours in every bite. Whether served as an appetiser, snack, or light meal, these fritters are a perfect way to showcase the bright, bold tastes of the Greece. What are Tomatokeftedes? The name tomatokeftedes comes from the Greek words tomato and keftedes (which means “meatballs” or “fritters”). As the name suggests, these are fritters made from ripe, juicy tomatoes mixed with a […]
TIROKAFTERI | Spicy Greek Feta Dip
Tirokafteri: The Fiery, Creamy Greek Dip You’ll Keep Coming Back For If you’ve ever enjoyed Greek cuisine, chances are you’ve come across Tirokafteri—a creamy, spicy, and utterly addictive dip that perfectly balances heat with richness. Whether served as part of a meze spread, with warm pita, or as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables, tirokafteri (literally “spicy cheese”) is a classic Greek dish that’s as versatile as it is flavourful. But what makes this dip so special? It’s the bold combination of tangy feta cheese and red peppers, blended into a smooth and velvety texture, with a spicy kick that makes it stand out from other Mediterranean dips. What is Tirokafteri? Tirokafteri is a traditional Greek dip made primarily from feta cheese, red peppers, olive oil, and chili peppers. The word “tirokafteri” comes from the Greek words tiro (cheese) and kafteri (spicy or hot), which gives you a hint […]
SPANAKOPITA | Greek Spinach Pie
Spanakopita: A Fresh, Herb-Infused Classic Greek Pie If there’s one dish that embodies the heart of Greek comfort food, it’s spanakopita—the iconic spinach and feta pie wrapped in crispy, golden layers of flaky Fillo pastry. A beloved dish in Greek households, spanakopita is a versatile and nourishing meal that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. In our version of spanakopita, we take this classic to the next level by adding a generous mix of fresh herbs such as mint, dill, and even fennel fronds if they’re in season. We also introduce a richer, creamier twist by incorporating ricotta cheese (yes, it’s not traditional but I’m part Cretan, and we put mizithra in everything!!), and we make it more substantial by combining spinach with the slightly earthy and tender silverbeet. Together, these ingredients create a spanakopita that’s not only delicious but also packed with layers of fresh […]
TIROPSOMO ME ELIES | Greek Cheese Bread with Kalamata Olives
This delicious and savoury bread is packed with Greek cheeses such as Kefalograviera, Feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, along with the sweetness of dried figs, creating a delicious contrast between salty and sweet. It’s perfect to have on hand when you’re feeling like a snack, great for lunchboxes, or even as a side for dinner. Feta cheese is a must-have! And so is, Kefalograviera. It’s a traditional Greek cheese that goes great with Feta; in fact, you may even notice it’s in a lot of my recipes as it’s my favourite hard Greek cheese. If you can’t find Kefalograviera, Gruyère and Parmesan are good substitutes. I love a little sweet and salty flavour contrast in my food. It’s definitely something I’ve adopted from my mother and Yiayia Maria. They put honey on almost everything with cheese, a very Cretan practice (although this recipe doesn’t have honey). For sweetness, I’ve added […]
STRAPASADA – KAYANAS | Greek Tomato Scrambled Eggs
Discovering the Flavourful Simplicity of Greek Strapasada (Kayanas) Greek cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and time-honoured recipes that have been passed down through generations. One dish that perfectly embodies this ethos is Strapasada, also known in some regions as Kayanas. It’s a simple, rustic dish that combines eggs with tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil to create a comforting and nourishing meal. Often enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Strapasada is a versatile recipe that showcases the beauty of Mediterranean cooking with its fresh, wholesome ingredients. Yes, I know. When we return from our holidays in Greece, that first bite of a tomato can seem somewhat disappointing, and instantly, you compare it to the delicious, bright, juicy tomatoes you ate every day there. So, let me ask you. Are you refrigerating your tomatoes? If so, stop! Keep those tasty red fruits out of the fridge if you […]
YIAYIA MARIA’S KOLOKITHOPITA | Greek Pumpkin Pie
Kolokithopita: A Heartfelt Greek Pumpkin Pie Recipe Passed Down Through Generations When I think of Yiayia’s kitchen, one of the first things that comes to mind her irresistible Kolokithopita, a traditional Greek pumpkin pie that fills the house with warmth and comfort. It’s not just a dish; it’s a cherished memory, a connection to my roots, and a culinary treasure passed down from my beloved grandmother. Over the years, Kolokithopita became a constant during my university studies—my grandmother would make it for me, and it was a reminder of love, home, and that she was always thinking about me. In this post, I’m excited to share Kolokithopita, a pie that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the freshness of herbs like mint, dill, and fennel fronds, all wrapped in layers of crispy, golden Fillo Pastry. It’s a dish that, for me, symbolises both tradition and comfort, and I can’t […]
GEMISTA | Greek Stuffed Vegetables
Greek Gemista: A Flavourful Journey into Greek Comfort Food Greek cuisine is famous for its vibrant flavours, fresh ingredients, and simple yet comforting dishes. Among the many iconic dishes that have captured the hearts of food lovers around the world, Gemista stands out as a quintessential example of Greek comfort food (and it’s my fav!). This traditional dish, which translates to “stuffed” in Greek, features an array of vegetables stuffed with a flavourful mixture of rice, herbs, feta cheese, and sometimes minced meat, then baked to perfection. Whether served in the summer with fresh tomatoes and peppers or in the colder months with hearty zuchini and eggplant, Gemista embodies the essence of Greek home cooking—heartwarming, aromatic, and full of Mediterranean goodness. What Is Gemista? Gemista (pronounced: ye-mee-sta) is a Greek dish made up of vegetables stuffed with a flavourful mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes minced meat. The most common […]
KOLOKITHAKIA TIGANITA | Fried Zucchini Chips
Kolokithakia Tiganita: Crispy Greek Fried Zucchini That’s Impossible to Resist If there’s one dish that perfectly captures the essence of Greek comfort food, it’s Kolokithakia Tiganita. This simple, yet irresistible dish of fried zucchini is one of Greece’s most beloved appetizers or side dishes, often found on the menu at family-run tavernas or served as a snack with a cold glass of ouzo. Lightly battered, crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside, Kolokithakia Tiganita brings out the very best of fresh zucchini, making it a timeless summer favourite (that won’t go soggy)! It’s my favourite summer mezze! What is Kolokithakia Tiganita? Kolokithakia Tiganita is the Greek name for fried zucchini. The word “kolokithaki” means zucchini in Greek, and “tiganita” comes from the verb “tigano”, meaning to fry. The dish is incredibly simple but packed with flavour. In its most traditional form, Kolokithakia Tiganita consists of zucchini that’s sliced […]
PIPERIES GEMISTES ME FETA | Peppers Stuffed with Feta Cheese
Greek Stuffed Red Peppers with Feta: A Flavor-Packed Greek Delight Greek cuisine is known for its ability to combine simple ingredients into something truly special, bursting with fresh flavours and aromatic herbs. One of the many gems of Greek cooking is the variety of stuffed vegetables, often filled with savory ingredients like rice, herbs, and cheeses. Today, let’s explore a wonderful dish that showcases the perfect blend of sweet red peppers and a rich, tangy filling made from Feta, Kefalograviera, tomato, onion, and a hint of mint—a dish that’s not only colourful but also packed with Greek and Mediterranean goodness. This recipe for Greek Stuffed Red Peppers is an incredible combination of textures and flavours, from the creamy cheeses to the fresh, juicy capsicum (peppers). Whether served as a starter, side dish, or even a main course, these stuffed peppers will transport you straight to the Greece.
CHANIOTIKO BOUREKI | Cretan zucchini and potato pie
A delicious regional dish from the island of Crete. Chaniotiko is the word for city of Chania which is where this dish is so popular. A light and delicious pie filled with potato and grey zucchinis that have been sliced thin and arranged with layers of local Cretan cheese in between, encased in hand made pastry.
KOLOKITHOKEFTEDES | Pumpkin and cheese fritters
Kolokithokeftedes: Greek Pumpkin Fritters That Are a Fresh Delight These crispy, golden, and fragrant fritters are a delicious twist on the classic kolokithokeftedes (zucchini fritters), with the sweet, earthy flavour of pumpkin taking center stage. Packed with fresh herbs, perfectly crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside, these pumpkin fritters are a true Greek comfort food that will warm your soul and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish to a main meal, Kolokithokeftedes with pumpkin are a wonderful addition to your repertoire. Easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavour, these fritters are a perfect way to showcase the humble pumpkin in an unexpectedly delicious way.
