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Food is a key part of Greek culture, and their cuisine is celebrated as one of the world’s best. Greek food focuses on fresh, flavorful ingredients and features staples such as vegetables, lamb, olive oil, and herbs like oregano, bay leaves, and mint. And because the dishes incorporate the components of the Mediterranean diet, they’re also healthy and nourishing. But when you’re faced with a menu full of Greek options, which should you choose? Here are some of the best authentic Greek foods to try.

5 Authentic Greek Dishes You Must Try

1. Souvlaki

Souvlaki consists of grilled meat (and sometimes vegetables) served on a skewer. However, the real magic in this dish is found in the marinade, which usually contains lemon juice or vinegar combined with the full flavors of oregano and thyme. This dish is often served with pita bread or rice.

2. Moussaka 

moussaka-New-YorkLayers of fried eggplant, cheese, and meat are covered with a rich béchamel sauce and cooked until the flavors meld. Potatoes and vegetables, like zucchini, can be incorporated as well. Vegetarian versions of this dish are also popular.

3. Spanakopita

This soft, flaky pastry is filled with spinach, feta cheese, and onion. It can be served as an appetizer or as a standalone dish accompanied by a cucumber or Greek salad.

4. Dolmades

In this dish, grape leaves are stuffed with herbed rice and then steamed. An essential ingredient is lemon, which provides a bright, tart complement to the heady, full-bodied flavor of the herbs. This traditional Greek food is great as a meal starter.

5. Baklava

No Greek meal is complete without baklava for dessert. Layers of phyllo dough are filled with chopped nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts, and then drenched in honey or thick syrup. Sweet, crunchy, and chewy at the same time, it provides a satisfying ending to a perfect dinner.

 

If you’re ready to try some authentic Greek cuisine, look no further than Yia Yia’s Homemade Greek Food on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. This fast-paced, casual restaurant serves high-quality, fresh Greek food at prices you’ll love. From their mouth-watering gyros to Greek salads, their menu has something for everyone. And their food is prepared fresh every day with many locally sourced ingredients. To peruse their menu, visit them online, and call (212) 545-1210 to speak with a friendly staff member today.

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