Greeks have a unique and varied diet, including a wide range of delicious breakfast options to help fuel their day. From the beloved bougatsa and spanakopita to more traditional dishes like tyropita and feta cheese, there’s something for everyone in Greek cuisine’s early-morning offerings.
Discover all the great breakfast foods that Greek people enjoy, and get ready to start your day off in a truly delicious way!
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What Do Greek Eat For Breakfast?
A typical Greek breakfast consists of tsoureki, koulouri, greek yoghurt, spanakopita, bougatsa, strapatsada, staka me ayga, gyros, greek salad, saganaki, dolmades, souvilaki, etc.
What do Greeks eat for breakfast? Well, that’s a question that has stumped many a traveler. But fear not, as we have the answer! Breakfast in Greece can vary depending on the day, but most often includes savory and sweet dishes.
The Greeks are known for their hearty morning mixes! A variety of breads, pastries, fruits, and Greek yogurt are typically found in a classic Greek breakfast.
These foods are very nutrient-dense and a terrific source of energy, making them a fantastic way to start your Greek food explorations!
Some of the most popular breakfast items include honey pancakes with fresh fruit or baklava for dessert, eggs benedict, moussaka, spanakopita, and gyros.
So, whether you’re in the mood for a traditional breakfast or something a little more unique, scroll down and get started!
Traditional Greek breakfast
1. Greek Coffee
Greek coffee is prepared using finely ground coffee (sometimes called a Turkish grind). It is cooked in a briki, cezve, or ibrik, which is a tall, thin pot. Greek coffee is typically served in a demitasse cup with the grounds still in the cup. As the coffee is carefully drunk, the grounds are allowed to settle.
Greek coffee is a staple in the morning breakfast menu for Greeks. Coffee is usually consumed on its own, with or without sugar, but some Greeks enjoy adding a spoonful of sugar to their coffee for an extra kick! If you’re coffee lover, no doubt you must try this coffee if you’re in Greece.
2. Tsoureki
On Holy Thursday, or Red Thursday as we call it in Greece, tsoureki, a yeast bread, is customarily braided and cooked. Mahleb, mastic, and cardamom flavor the sweet, buttery, stringy dough. Tsoureki wouldn’t exist without these seasonings.
In Greece, tsoureki are available all year long and come with a variety of toppings and flavors. In Thessaloniki, the chocolate-dipped variety is quite well-liked.
When it comes to breakfast, Greeks know what they’re doing! From traditional bread with butter and honey to fruits, yogurt, eggs, and pastries – there’s something for everyone. Make sure you try out some of these dishes at your next breakfast get-together and see just how tasty Greek cuisine can be.
3. Koulouri
The traditional Greek snack known as koulouri is available everywhere in the nation from bakeries or street sellers. They resemble thin bagels and taste well eaten plain or with a topping (feta and tomatoes are a popular local topping).
Koulouri is a traditional pastry that Greeks enjoy for breakfast. Made from a variety of ingredients, including eggs, flour, butter, and cheese, koulouri is considered to be light and nutritious.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day in Greece and koulouri is part of a traditional breakfast menu. If you are in Greece, you should try this pastry as it is pretty great addition to your pastry journey!
4. Greek Yoghurt
Yogurt that has been strained to remove the majority of its whey yields a thicker consistency than regular unstrained yogurt while maintaining the yogurt’s distinct sour flavor. This type of yogurt is also known as Greek yogurt, yogurt cheese, sack yogurt, or kerned yogurt.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and yogurt is classic breakfast food in Greece. If you’re looking for something delicious to start your day, yogurt is a great choice!
You can add nuts, seeds, or fruits to make it more varied and healthy. For those who are looking for something sweet, try honey-flavored yogurt or oatmeal with honey. And don’t forget the coffee – Greeks love their coffee in the morning!
5. Spanakopita
Greek savory spinach pie is called spanakopita. In northern Greece in particular, it is frequently made with cheese—typically feta—and is thus referred to as spanakopita. The cheese-filled varieties of spanakopita are also known by the term in southern Greece.
Greeks are breakfast-loving people, and pies are cut! Some of the most popular pies include spanakopita (vegetarian spinach pie), cheese pie, and baklava pie. Pies can be savory or sweet – whatever your taste might be, there’s a perfect Greek pie for you!
Not only are they delicious on their own, but pies make an excellent breakfast that will keep you going all morning long. Not to mention, they’re filling enough so that you won’t feel snacky in the morning hours. So go ahead and indulge in some delicious Greek pastries at breakfast time today!
6. Bougatsa
There’s nothing like the sultry pleasure of breakfast, is there? And what better way to start your day than with a delicious bougatsa? This savory dish can be made with eggs, ham, cheese, and potatoes.
Greek filo pie known as bougatsa is created with melted butter, cinnamon sugar, and a layer of creamy custard sandwiched between two crispy golden-brown filo sheets. Traditional Greek desserts like bougatsa are deliciously creamy and simple to create.
It can also include green beans, tomatoes, or mushrooms – making it more diverse and filling. A sweet variation of the bougatsa is usually made with bananas, honey, or syrup. Regardless of which version you choose – all versions of bougatsa will make your mornings taste great!
7. Strapatsada
Due to the accessibility and affordability of its components, strapatsada is a favorite dish in many parts of Greece. Although it can also be served cold, it is frequently made “on the fly” and eaten for lunch or as a light snack. It is also referred to as kagianas, koskosela, or menemeni.
Strapatsada is some of the most popular breakfast items in Greece. They come in a variety of flavors, ranging from savory to sweet, and they can be eaten as a standalone meal or part of an ensemble that includes eggs, potatoes, and olives. There are many different kagianas (stir-fries) to choose from which all taste amazing!
8. Staka me Ayga
A straightforward Cretan dish called staka me ayga consists of poached or fried eggs with regional staka (a type of buttery cream mixed with flour). The dish is normally eaten warm for breakfast and typically seasoned with salt and pepper.
Another typical Cretan food is apaki (smoked pork), which is frequently served with eggs and staka. Cretan cuisine’s specialty, staka, can be consumed as a dip, a side dish, or as a spread on slices of bread.
Often eaten as part of a larger meal, Staka can be enjoyed any time of day! It’s often served at room temperature so that the flavors can meld together better. If you’re in Greece or fan of Greek food, you should try this food, the recipe can be found online as this food is really breakfast worthy!
9. Alevropita
Greece is known for its feta. Although this brined curd cheese is a year-round staple on Greek menus, it really comes into its own during the hot Mediterranean summer when served alone with olive oil and dried oregano, along with watermelon and olives.
Similar in beauty to alevropita is the simplicity of this specialty of Epirus in northwest Greece. It is essentially a doughy flatbread with feta on top and is flavored with oregano. Because it only needs a few ingredients and is simple to make, it is ideal for a picnic in the warmer months.
10. Fetoydia
With milk, eggs, fresh or stale bread, and olive oil, feta is the Greek equivalent of French toast. Slices of the bread are taken and soaked in milk, then softly beaten eggs, and last dipped in olive oil until well browned on both sides.
The fried bread slices are often eaten while they are still warm, drizzled with honey, and dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar. Fetoydia is typically consumed for breakfast or as a satisfying snack at any time of the day, but it can also be served with cheese in place of honey and sugar.
If you’re planning a trip to Greece anytime soon, don’t forget to try out some of the country’s famous breakfast dishes! Whatever your favorite Greek breakfast dish may be, make sure to give it a try when you visit this wonderful country!
Popular Greek breakfast
11. Moussaka
Moussaka is a dish with an eggplant or potato base that is popular in the Balkans and the Middle East. It has numerous local and regional variations. The Greek variation developed in the 1920s by Nikolaos Tselementes is the one that is most well-known in Europe and the Americas.
Greece’s most well-known, traditional meal is without a doubt Greek moussaka (mousaka)! A bar that doesn’t offer it or a home that doesn’t prepare it on special occasions are both difficult to come by!
What then is Moussaka? A rich, tomatoey beef or lamb mince sauce, potatoes, baked or fried eggplants (aubergines), and a delightfully creamy bechamel sauce are all ingredients in the classic Greek dish known as moussaka. Alternatively put, the supreme comfort food.
So if you’re in Greece, then you’re in luck! You must try this moussaka as it is really great breakfast option for you!
12. Gyros
Gyros is a popular Greek breakfast dish that can be enjoyed by all. It’s made from ground meat that has been wrapped in a tortilla and then fried, making it hearty and filling.
Gyros sandwiches are now enjoyed all over the world, especially in places with heavy Greek influences such as Greece and Cyprus. They can also be served with a side salad, tzatziki sauce, and pita bread for an extra kick of taste!
13. Greek Salad
Greek salads are a great way to start your day. They’re filling, but light enough that you can still enjoy breakfast without feeling weighed down.
One of the most popular Greek salads is made up of mixed greens, feta cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives – so it’s perfect for those who want something healthy and tasty at the same time.
If you’re looking for something lighter instead, try a fruit salad! It’ll give you all the nutrients and flavor you need while easily satisfying your hunger.
14. Saganaki
Saganaki is a popular breakfast and lunch dish in Greece that consists of grilled cheese sandwiches on toasted bread with eggs, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
It can also be enjoyed for dinner if you’re feeling hungry! There are many variations of saganaki so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste buds. Traditionally served with ouzo on the side, saganaki is a perfect way to start your day or end your meal.
15. Greek Bouyourdi
Greek Bouyourdi is a delicious and healthy breakfast dish that will keep you energized all morning. Made from eggs, tomatoes, cheese, and olives, this meal is perfect for those who are looking for something filling yet palate-pleasing.
Traditionally, either simply feta cheese, red peppers, and tomatoes are used in this dish, or kasseri and feta cheese are combined. Kasseri cheese can be substituted with shredded gouda cheese since it is not always available.
The creamy feta pairs perfectly with the mouthwateringly cheesy gouda. Add some olives or maybe sundried tomatoes if you like. So why not give it a try the next time you have breakfast? You won’t regret it!
16. Dolmades
Greek meals known as dolmades (also spelled dolmathes) are made from cabbage or vine/grape leaves, which are then rolled into small parcels and filled with a delightful herb-infused rice mixture. Along with rice, herbs, and seasonings, some dolmades recipes also call for minced beef or pork.
Dolmades are a type of Greek food that is usually filled with minced meat, cheese, or spinach. They come in grape leaf wrappers and can be enjoyed with yogurt or fruit as a side dish. So if you wanted to try some unique food, you should try this food!
17. Souvilaki
Popular Greek fast food called souvlaki is made up of tiny pieces of grilled meat and occasionally vegetables. Typically, it is eaten hot off the skewer right away.
If you’re in the mood for something filling and nutritious, try souvilaki – a type of omelet made with eggs, cheese, tomatoes, and onions.
You can get it as part of breakfast or lunch at most restaurants, and its versatility means that there’s always something to your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to start your day because it is filling without being heavy.
18. Loukoumades
The Greek version of doughnuts, loukoumades are tiny, bite-sized, fluffy, sweet honey balls that are deep-fried to a golden-crisp perfection.
Traditionally, Greek donuts (loukoumades) are served drenched in hot honey syrup, dusted with cinnamon, and topped with chopped walnuts or toasted sesame seeds.
Loukoumades are a breakfast favorite in Greece that is loved for their rich and flavorful taste. They can be eaten as is, dipped in honey or syrupy fruit flavors, or wrapped in warm pita bread.
Whether you’re new to Loukoumades or a regular snack eater, these tasty morsels are bound to please!
19. Tzatziki
Tzatziki is a yogurt-based sauce that is flavored with cucumbers, herbs, and red wine. It’s a popular breakfast option in Greece, where it goes great with pita bread, eggs, or as a sandwich filling.
It’s also a popular appetizer found at restaurants and cafes all over the country. If you like yogurt-based dish, consider trying this out as they’re great addition to your food list to try.
20. Tyropita
Have you ever eaten these amazing Greek snacks before? Tyropitas are tiny pies made from phyllo dough that are deliciously flaky and filled with two types of cheese and loads of fresh dill. These are ideal for serving as starters or as a course during a Greek breakfast.
Tyropita is a fluffy pastry stuffed with cheese, ham, or eggs. It often accompanies a traditional Greek breakfast buffet and is usually served with vegetables or salad on the side. Tyropita can also be enjoyed as part of a coffee break. If you like pastry and in Greece, you should try it!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a favorite Greek breakfast dish?
Eggs and staka is a popular breakfast option in Greece. The Cretan breakfast of champions is this. Staka with eggs, or “staka me avga” in Greek, is a dish made of poached or fried eggs topped with staka, a type of creamy mixture fluffed up with flour, to provide energy for a strenuous day in the fields or tending to the flocks.
2. Does Greek eat eggs for breakfast?
It should come as no surprise that eggs are still a popular breakfast option in Greece today since they have been consumed there since antiquity. Feta cheese, green peppers, onions, and tomatoes are the main ingredients in Greek omelets.
3. What do Greek people eat every day?
Greek cuisine mostly consists of locally grown foods including fresh, in-season fruits, vegetables, grains, pulses, lentils, fresh seafood, goats, sheep, and, of course, olive oil. Yogurt and cheese are also essential. In Greek culture, food is important. Everything is shared at the supper table.
4. What is a typical Greek meal?
Classic dips like tzatziki (yogurt, cucumber, and garlic), melitzanosalata (aubergine), and fava (creamy split pea purée) are a staple of any Greek meal. But you must have the mouthwatering taramasalata (fish roe dip).
Conclusion
Greeks are known for their breakfast habits, and breakfast is not the only meal of the day! In this blog, I have compiled a comprehensive list of what Greeks eat for breakfast, from traditional dishes to breakfast snacks.
So, whether you’re looking for breakfast ideas or just want to learn more about the cuisine of Greece, be sure to check out this blog! Thanks for reading, let me know your thoughts in the comment below!
