About mezedes:

The abundance of mezedes options ensures variety and caters to different preferences and dietary needs. It is a feast for the senses, with a variety of textures, aromas and flavours. From creamy and spicy tzatziki to savoury stuffed grape leaves and crispy grilled halloumi, each meze dish tells a story and reflects Greece's unique culinary heritage. The tradition of meze dates back to ancient times, when Greeks believed that food should be consumed in small portions, allowing for a wider range of flavours. Meze also had a practical purpose: to whet the appetite for the main meal. Today, it is still an integral part of Greek culinary culture, whether consumed in tavernas, family gatherings or on festive occasions.

Besides its social and cultural significance, mezedes also reflect the abundance of fresh and vibrant ingredients Greece has to offer. From the sun-ripened tomatoes to the fragrant herbs and flavourful olive oil. Every element used in meze is a testament to the rich agricultural landscape and Mediterranean climate.

Whether it is an informal gathering or a formal celebration, Greek mezedes offers a delicious culinary experience that brings people together. It encourages a slower pace of dining, enabling moments of connection and fun. The combination of delicious food, lively conversation and warm Mediterranean hospitality creates an unforgettable experience that embodies the essence of Greek culture.

Classic Greek Meze delicacies:

a) Tzatziki: This refreshing and creamy yoghurt dip is made with strained Greek yoghurt, grated cucumber, garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. It is often eaten with pita bread or with grilled meat.

b) Dolmades: These delectable stuffed grape leaves are usually filled with a tasty mixture of rice, spices and sometimes ground meat. Dolmades are often served cold and can be eaten either vegetarian or non-vegetarian.

c) Spanakopita: Spanakopita is a popular Greek pastry made from puff pastry filled with a mixture of spinach, feta, onions and herbs. These bite-sized triangles are baked golden brown and offer a delicious mix of textures and flavours.

d) Greek meatballs (Keftedes): These succulent meatballs are made with a combination of ground meat, herbs, breadcrumbs and spices. Served with tzatziki, they make a delectable meze.

e) Grilled halloumi: Halloumi, a semi-hard cheese made from sheep's milk, is often grilled or baked until golden brown and crispy. Its unique texture and salty flavour make it a favourite meze option, especially when combined with a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lemon.

Regional Mezedes Specialities:

Greek cuisine is deeply rooted in regional specialities, and this includes meze. Each region in Greece has its own unique take on meze, with local ingredients and flavours. Some regional specialities include

a) Taramasalata: Originally from coastal areas, this creamy dip is made with fish roe, bread, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic. It offers a delicious sea flavour and is perfect for seafood lovers.

b) Fava: Originating from the island of Santorini. Fava is a creamy yellow split pea puree topped with caramelised onions and drizzled with olive oil. It is often served with crusty bread and makes for a rich and satisfying meze experience.

Greek Mezedes combine with drinks:

To enhance your meze experience, it is essential to pair them with the right drinks. Greek wines, such as Assyrtiko or Agiorgitiko, are a fantastic complement to the many flavours of the meze. The crisp and citrusy notes of Assyrtiko or the fruity and velvety character of Agiorgitiko can elevate your meze experience to new heights. If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, try combining meze with Greek herbal teas or refreshing homemade lemonades infused with aromatic herbs such as mint or rosemary.

Greek meze are a culinary delight that showcases the art of sharing and feasting on morsels full of flavours. From classic favourites like tzatziki and spanakopita to regional specialities, the world of Greek meze is vast and tempting. By exploring these appetisers, you can embark on a gastronomic journey through the rich landscape of Greek cuisine. So gather your loved ones, raise a glass and indulge in Greek meze madness.

For a wide selection of authentic Greek meze, including tzatziki, dolmades and more, visit our online Greek shop. Here you will find the best ingredients to recreate the magic of Greek meze at your home. Opa!