As a foodie, I love nothing more than trying as much local cuisine when I travel. Of course, as a strict vegetarian, that sometimes isn’t possible depending on the country. I’ve had my fair share of protein bars while watching my friends devour a local delicacy, trying not to be jealous. Greece is a country where I can leave the protein bars behind because it is truly a vegetarian’s paradise. Keep reading to find out why + my favorite vegetarian food in Greece to order!
Here’s why it is easy to find vegetarian food in Greece
Most places know what it means to be a vegetarian
If you’re a vegetarian, you know how huge this is. I’ve now traveled to Greece three times and have had zero issue in communicating that I’m a vegetarian. In fact, a lot of menus even have vegetarian items marked and/or a whole dedicated section.
A lot of the side dishes are vegetarian by nature
Most of the meat is actually in the main dishes. If a restaurant doesn’t have a vegetarian section, look for the side dishes and appetizers where you will see a good amount of options.
Everything is incredibly fresh and healthy
For example, my partner can’t eat dairy normally because it upsets his stomach but he quickly found out that wasn’t the case in Greece. It was like watching a kid in a candy store. He had his fair share of cheese, homemade ice cream, and fresh whipped cream. You just feel so great after eating Greek food.
Leaving the meat out of a dish is easy
We found that a lot of restaurants could simply leave the meat out of a dish or find ways to tweak it for you. If you’ve traveled abroad before you know this isn’t always the case and some countries hate substitutions/alterations.
Each island has its own speciality and many of them are vegetarian
We quickly learned after island hopping that each island has their own local cheese (and it is always so incredibly delicious!). Folegandros also had Matsata which is a fresh homemade pasta that is made right before it is served. Santorini is known for their fava (I recommend getting it at Roka in Oia).
And Now…The Best Vegetarian Food in Greece to Order
Fava
Yellow fava beans are cooked along with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs and then mashed up until it is smooth. Just try it.
Tzatziki
On a hot summer day, you want tzatziki with some bread. It is made with yogurt, cucumber, olive oil, fresh herbs and is a dip served chilled.
Zucchini Fritters
Who doesn’t love crispy zucchinis? Dip these into your tzatziki and yes, you will never want to leave Greece.
Cheese pies
Oh dear lord, Greek cheese pies had us weak at the knees. You’ll find a ton of different variations so you’ll never get sick of these.
Fried Saganaki
Who doesn’t want fried cheese? With a little squeeze of lemon, this is the perfect starter. You’ll also find some served with a drizzle of honey and sesame seeds. I highly recommend both!
Dolmades
Easily one of my favorite vegetarian dishes in Greece, dolmades are stuffed vine leaves filled with rice and herbs, marinated in lemon juice and served chilled. Sooo addicting!
Melitzanosalata
If you’re an eggplant lover, this dip is for you. Grab some fresh pita and go to town.
Chickpea dishes
I left this one intentionally vague as we found a lot of different variations of chickpea dishes. No matter how they’re served, they are freaking delicious.
Bottom Line
Greece is incredibly vegetarian friendly and you’ll have no trouble finding a variety of dishes. Enjoy eating your way through this incredible country!
Like this post on vegetarian food in Greece? Then you’ll love these:
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