Athens comes alive with a bounty of fresh produce and culinary delights in Spring.
Eating seasonally isn’t just a culinary trend, it’s also a health-conscious choice that connects us to the rhythm of nature and nourishes our bodies with the freshest, most nutrient-rich ingredients. Here’s some seasonal spring foods in Greece and some traditional recipes to try.
Which foods are seasonal in Spring?
From crisp vegetables to succulent fruits, the spring harvest offers a kaleidoscope of colours and flavours. Here are some seasonal treasures to savour:
Artichokes
Tender and flavourful, artichokes are a quintessential spring vegetable in Athens. Whether roasted, grilled, or incorporated into savoury pies, they add a touch of elegance to any dish.
To try:
Artichoke Hearts with Lemon and Olive Oil
A simple dish where artichoke hearts are marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs, then served as an appetizer or side dish.
Fava Beans
Creamy and earthy, fava beans are a springtime delicacy in Athens. Whether enjoyed as a dip or stewed with herbs, they are a comforting addition to any meal.
To try:
Fava Bean Salad
A refreshing salad featuring cooked fava beans tossed with tomatoes, onions, parsley, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Wild Greens (Horta)
Foraged from the hillsides and fields, wild greens like spinach and dandelion greens are a staple in Greek cuisine. Rich in vitamins and minerals, they add flavour and nutrition to dishes like spanakopita and salads.
To try:
Spanakopita
A classic Greek dish, spanakopita is a savoury pie filled with layers of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. With its flaky pastry and hearty filling, it’s the perfect showcase for spring greens.
Strawberries
Strawberries herald the arrival of spring in Athens. They’re enjoyed fresh on their own or incorporated into desserts and breakfast dishes.
To try:
Strawberry Spinach Salad
A refreshing salad featuring fresh strawberries, baby spinach, feta cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
Cherries
Cherries are a seasonal delight in Athens’ orchards. Whether eaten fresh or used in desserts like cherry pies and tarts, they are a true taste of springtime.
To try:
Cherry Spoon Sweet
A traditional Greek dessert where cherries are cooked in a sugar syrup flavoured with lemon zest and spices until tender and preserved. Served as a sweet treat or alongside Greek yogurt.
Avocados
Avocados thrive in the Greek spring climate. They’re mashed into guacamole, sliced onto toast, or added to salads.
To try:
Avocado Salad
A light and refreshing salad featuring ripe avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.
Kiwi Fruits
The tangy-sweet flavour of kiwi fruits add a refreshing twist to spring dishes. They’re enjoyed on their own or added to fruit salads or smoothies for a burst of tropical flavour.
No visit to Athens in the springtime is complete without indulging in some of the city’s iconic dishes:
To try:
Kiwi Fruit Smoothie
A refreshing smoothie made with kiwi fruits, Greek yogurt, spinach, banana, and a splash of orange juice, blended until smooth and creamy.
Food Festivals
Athens Street Food Festival, Celebrating Diverse Street Eats
For a taste of Athens’ vibrant street food scene, don’t miss the Athens Street Food Festival. It celebrates the diverse flavours of Greek cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. From souvlaki and gyros to spanakopita and fava bean dips, there’s something to delight everyone. There’s live music, cooking demonstrations, and a lively atmosphere.
Whether you’re savouring a slice of spanakopita or sampling street food delights at the Athens Street Food Festival, every bite is a celebration of the season’s bounty. So come, join us in embracing the vibrant culinary scene of springtime in Athens. Our Traditional Greek Food Tour in Hidden Athens encourages you to sample many seasonal dishes. Book here: https://foodaroundathens.com/traditional-greek-food-tour-in-hidden-athens/
