The unique nature of any cookbook is only as good as its content. Authentic Greek cuisine is known to be handed down from one generation to the next. This effort is no exception. All my life, under strict, watchful direction, all generations cooked together amongst the clatter of pots, pans, and laughter. As a young child perched in the kitchen, I watched and listened as my grandmother and mother introduced me to these authentic recipes, just as their
grandmothers and mothers had before them. From early childhood, filo-wrangling is in every Greek’s blood. It is now my responsibility to introduce these recipes to my daughters, Athena and Eleni, so the Greek tradition can continue.

This book has elements of the traditional and the contemporary. Although there is a creative element to some recipes, each dish is rooted in authentic flavor of the Mediterranean diet. These authentic flavors of Greece include dishes like Spanakopita, Tiropitas, Souvlakia, Pastichio, Baklava or contemporary dishes like Baklava Pancakes, Kalamata Bruschetta, Gyro Lettuce Wraps, Santorini Sunrise Omelets, and Ouzo Chocolate Cupcakes. The Mediterranean diet is known as the healthiest in the world. This food uses the freshest ingredients making it healthy not heavy, highlighting the best of Greek culture.

Greek cooking has always been centered on celebration, with meaning and love behind each dish. I have enjoyed using these recipes when I entertained family and friends over the years. Make these recipes with your family without fear of making a mistake, because in cooking there are no mistakes. Enjoy these simple-to-make dishes by gathering around the table to cook and eat together, and start making your own traditions.

From my kouzina to yours: