Greek appetizers are all about the oil and the variety. Greek food has a reputation for sounding complicated, but Greek cuisine often boasts one of the easiest appetizer selections in the world. Bowls of olives, slices of cheese and dipping sauces for everything from crusty breads and pitas to fried fish and vegetables will leave your guests saying "Opa!" at your next party.
Vegetables
There are a variety of vegetables you can offer your guests, the one star above all others being olives. A variety of olives is key not only to play to the taste palates of various guests, but also for a colorful visual aesthetic. Fill a few bowls (with toothpicks nearby) with various types including black and red kalamata olives, green olives, pimento stuffed green olives, Cretan olives and black olives.
The Greeks like their vegetables, and they are commonly fried for appetizers. Zucchini, eggplant and mushrooms are among the most regular accompaniments to Greek meals. Cut vegetables in strips and oil-fry in a mixture of flour, salt, pepper and garlic. When the vegetables are still hot, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Place the vegetable selection on a tray next to a variety of Greek dips.
Dips
Dips are the ultimate party food, and Greek appetizers fit nicely into American party culture because they include a number of dips. Hummus is among the most known in the United States and around the world. It is found at most supermarkets, but is easy to make on your own. The main ingredients are chick peas, lemon juice, tahini (sunflower seed paste), olive oil, garlic and salt. If you can whirl a food processor or blender, you can make hummus. Tzatziki is another favorite among the pita-lovers of the world, and has just three simple ingredients: yogurt, cucumber and garlic. When providing dips as an appetizer, it is important that you provide plenty of things to dip into them such as small slices of grilled bread, cut pitas and a selection of vegetables.
Cheeses and Meat
There are a few cooked dishes available on the Greek appetizer menu, including spanakopita, one of the most popular snacks in all of Greece. Spanakopita is a spinach pie made with feta and filo puff pastry dough. For an appetizer they can be cut into small squares or triangles. Fried fish and simmered meatballs (such as lamb) are also common Greek finger foods, as are dolmades, which are oiled vine leaves stuffed with a rice and herb mixture folded into a little packet. Piroski, most commonly known as the Russian Piroshki, is a traditional Greek pastry filled with minced meat, cheese and spices. These are a great way to get some hearty protein onto the menu.
Drinks
If your party requires the adornment of a toga, then the chance of needing drinks is high. To get your Bacchanalia on its way, offer your guests a variety of red and white wines as well as a selection of beer. Do not go searching for Greek beer; you probably won't find any. Micro-brews can be found while in Greece, however their quality is severely lacking and will not be available outside of the country. The most common beer found at Greek pubs and restaurants is Heineken and Amstel. If you wish to serve a beverage that is authentically Greek, peruse your liquor store for ouzo, a clear brandy with anise flavor. Like most anise liqueurs, mix ouzo with water to produce a cloudy yet refreshing drink.
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