Ever wondered how to turn your sailboat's galley into a Greek kitchen?
Here, anyone who takes on the role of our onboard chef, a flexible responsibility among your crew, navigates not only the seas but also the rich tapestry of Greek flavors.

They ensure each meal becomes a delightful part of your unique sailing adventure. Bon appétit!

Greek cuisine is known for:

• its fresh ingredients,
• bold flavors, and
• simple yet delicious dishes.

So, here we've put together a collection of easy Greek meals, based on the Mediterranean diet, that you can make on board using local ingredients.

The Mediterranean diet focuses on:

• healthy fats,
• lean protein, and
• whole grains, which can help provide sustained energy and promote heart health.

★ The igredients

Greek cuisine is heavily influenced by the country's geography, climate, and history, with ingredients that reflect the Mediterranean climate and the country's long history of trade and conquest.

 

Here are some of the key ingredients that play a significant role in Greek cuisine:

OLIVE OIL

Olive Oil is a staple of Greek cuisine, and is used in everything from salads and dips to grilled meats and seafood.

Greece is one of the largest producers of olive oil in the world, and the quality of its olive oil is renowned for its fruity, grassy flavor and bright green color.

Vangelis Kavas, the founder of Kavas Yachting, is also an olive oil connoisseur, as he owns an Olive Grove and is known to get excited about exceptionally positive clients and may offer them a bottle of his exquisite extra virgin olive oil as a gesture of appreciation.

Greek olive oil is often used as a finishing oil, drizzled over dishes just before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.

 

FETA CHEESE

A tangy, salty cheese that is made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk.

It's a versatile cheese that can be used in salads, pastries, and as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables.

In Greece, feta is often served as part of a traditional meze platter, accompanied by olives, bread, and other small dishes.

 

YOGURT

Greek yogurt is a thick and creamy yogurt that is made by straining out the whey.

A popular ingredient in Greek cuisine, and is often used as a base for dips and sauces, as well as in desserts such as yogurt with honey and walnuts.

Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

 

FRESH HERBS

Fresh herbs such as oregano, thyme, rosemary and bay leaves, are used extensively in Greek cuisine, adding flavor and fragrance to dishes such as roasted meats and grilled fish.

Many Greek dishes also feature dill and parsley, which are often used in salads and dips.

 

CITRUS FRUITS

Greece is known for its citrus fruits, including lemons, oranges, and grapefruits.
These fruits are used in both savory and sweet dishes, and are often paired with seafood or used to flavor desserts.

 

SEAFOOD

In the Greek islands, seafood is the primary source of protein for the locals.

The islanders have a deep appreciation for the sea's bountiful gifts and incorporate it into their daily lives.

Whether it's enjoyed with a glass of ouzo as an appetizer or as the main course during lunch or dinner accompanied by a fine Greek wine, seafood is a vital part of the islanders' culinary culture.

From octopus and shrimps to freshly caught fish, the Greek islands offer a wide variety of seafood options that are sure to satisfy any seafood lover's palate.

 

It's worth mentioning that you can easily find what you need to prepare nutritious and delicious meals that follow the Mediterranean diet, in the supermarkets of any island.

 

★ Most popular greek recipes

The following recipes are ideal for cooking in a yacht's kitchen while enjoying a sailing holiday in the Greek islands.

 

😋 Greek yogurt with honey and nuts

Greek yogurt is a staple of Greek cuisine and is often served for breakfast with a drizzle of honey and a handful of nuts.

 

😋 Eggs with tomatoes and feta

It's a simple and delicious dish that is often served as a breakfast or brunch item, but can also be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil
• 4-5 eggs
• 100g feta cheese, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   Stir to combine and cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.

3. Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet with the tomato mixture, and stir to combine.

4. Cook the egg and tomato mixture, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set, about 6-8 minutes.

5. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the egg and tomato mixture.

6. Serve hot with crusty bread.

 

😋 Greek Salad

A classic Greek salad is a refreshing and easy dish to make at a normally limited galley of a yacht.

Simply chop up some fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and green peppers, and toss them together with feta cheese and Kalamata olives.

Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, and season with oregano, salt and pepper to taste.

 

😋 Cretan Dakos

Dakos is typically served as a light meal or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 4 large round barley rusks
• 4 ripe tomatoes
• 1/2 red onion
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8-12 Kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh oregano leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Place the rusks in a large bowl and pour enough cold water over them to cover.
   Let them soak for only 1-2 seconds under the tap, until softened but still firm.

2. Slice the tomatoes into thin rounds and the onion into thin strips.
   Arrange them on top of the soaked rusks.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.

4. Drizzle the dressing over the tomatoes and onions.

5. Add the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad.

6. Garnish with fresh oregano leaves and serve immediately.

Enjoy your refreshing and authentic Cretan Dakos salad!

 

 

😋 Mussels with White Wine and Garlic

Ingredients:

• 1 kg fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley leaves, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
   Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

2. Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it reduces slightly.

3. Add the mussels to the pot and stir to combine.
   Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels have opened up.
   Discard any mussels that have not opened.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Transfer the mussels and the sauce to a serving dish.
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley leaves.

6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Mussels with White Wine and Garlic!

Pairs with:

Greek wines such as Malagousia , Moschofilero , and Agiorgitiko , can provide excellent pairings for Mussels with White Wine and Garlic, highlighting the dish's Greek flavors and complementing its key ingredients.

 

😋 Octopus with Fava recipe

Fava, also known as yellow split peas, is a legume that is commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
It has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.

In Greek cuisine, fava is often served as a side dish, topped with onions and herbs.

Ingredients:

• 1 large octopus (about 1-1.5 kg)
• 500 g yellow split peas (fava)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the fava.
   Rinse the yellow split peas and add them to a pot with enough water to cover them by about 2 inches.
   Add the chopped onion, bay leaves, and cumin, and bring the mixture to a boil.

2. Reduce the heat and simmer the fava for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the peas are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
   Remove the bay leaves and mash the fava with a potato masher (at home, you can use an immersion blender), until smooth and creamy.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. While the fava is cooking, prepare the octopus.
   Rinse the octopus and remove the head and beak.
   Place the octopus in a pot of boiling water and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until tender.
   You'll know it's done when you can easily pierce the flesh with a fork.

4. Remove the octopus from the water and let it cool slightly.
   Then, slice it into bite-sized pieces.

5. To serve, spoon some of the fava onto each plate and top with the sliced octopus.
   Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic and fresh lemon juice.
   Serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.

Pairs with:

The choice of wine will depend on personal preference, but Assyrtiko and Xinomavro 🍷, are two classic Greek wine options that can complement Octopus with Fava nicely.

 

😋 Greek-style shrimp spaghetti

Greek-style shrimp spaghetti is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with aromatic herbs and tangy feta cheese.

This easy-to-make pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.

2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.

4. Pour in the white wine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half.

5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss to combine.

6. Add the chopped parsley, dill, and crumbled feta cheese to the skillet and stir to combine.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve hot and enjoy your Greek-style shrimp spaghetti!

Pairs with:

Greek-style shrimp spaghetti pairs well with a crisp and refreshing white wine, such as a Greek Assyrtiko .

 

★ Greek Wine

The different varieties of Greek wine and provide recommendations for which wines to pair with different types of food.

Greece has a long history of winemaking and is home to a variety of unique wine varieties.

Experience the rich flavors and ancient history of Greek wine by visiting our world-renowned wineries during your stay.

Greek wine varieties and food pairings

Here are some tips:

Assyrtiko
This white wine variety from the island of Santorini is known for its citrus and mineral flavors.
Pairs with: seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus, shrimp saganaki, or fried calamari.

🍷 Agiorgitiko
This red wine variety from Nemea in the Peloponnese has fruity and spicy flavors with a medium body.
Pairs with: grilled meats, such as lamb chops, beef kebabs, or roasted pork.

Moschofilero
This white wine variety from the Peloponnese has floral and fruity flavors with a crisp acidity.
Pairs with: light dishes, such as Greek salads, seafood pasta, or grilled vegetables.

🍷 Xinomavro
This red wine variety from Northern Greece has bold tannins and flavors of dark fruits and spices.
Pairs with: rich and flavorful dishes, such as moussaka, beef stew, or roasted game.

Malagousia
Malagousia is a white wine grape variety that is native to Greece and is known for its aromatic and complex character. It has notes of peach, apricot, and citrus, making it a refreshing and flavorful wine to enjoy on its own or paired with food.
Pairs with: Seafood dishes such as grilled fish, octopus, and shrimp, as well as salads, chicken, and vegetable-based dishes.

Retsina
This white wine variety from Attica is infused with pine resin, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.
Pairs with: "Greek meze" dishes, such as feta cheese, olives, and dolmades.

 

★ The Greek aperitifs: Ouzo & Tsipouro

Immerse yourself in the Greek island culture by enjoying an ouzo or tsipouro aperitif before your lunch or dinner, just as the locals do.
Whether you're on land or on a boat, savoring this traditional Greek custom is the perfect way to fully embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle.

🥃 Ouzo: A traditional Greek distilled spirit made from anise and other aromatic herbs.
It is typically clear and turns milky white when mixed with water.

🥃 Tsipouro: A Greek distilled spirit made from grape pomace, the leftover skins and seeds from wine production.
It is typically clear and can be enjoyed straight or mixed with water.

Both, Ouzo and Tsipouro are paired well with meze dishes such as seafood, olives, feta cheese, and grilled vegetables.

 

★ The three main characteristics of Greek cuisine

Greek cuisine is more than just food; it's a sensory experience that engages all of your senses.

The three main characteristics of Greek cuisine are:

1. HEAR
   Greek cooks start by heating up the oil, which allows the flavors of the ingredients to come through.
   "Hear", refers to the sounds of sizzling and frying that occur when food is cooked in heated olive oil, adding to the sensory experience of the dish.

2. SMELL
   Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary are commonly used, adding a fragrant note that elevates the flavors.

3. TASTE
   And, of course, the most important characteristic of Greek cuisine is the taste - from the savory notes of feta cheese to the tangy flavor of yogurt, Greek cuisine offers a unique and diverse range of tastes that are sure to satisfy any palate.

So, the next time you're on board and craving something delicious, why not try one of these easy Greek meals and experience the flavors of Greece?