Grecian Appetizers
Grecian Appetizers Recipe - Vegetarian Greek Food
Introduction
Grecian Appetizers are a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for any gathering or party. These appetizers are packed with flavor and are sure to impress your guests. With a combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and more, these appetizers are a crowd favorite.
History
Grecian Appetizers have their roots in Greek cuisine, known for its use of fresh and flavorful ingredients. This recipe combines traditional Greek flavors with a modern twist, creating a dish that is both delicious and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 (1.8 oz) package dried vegetable soup mix
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup sour cream (light is okay)
- 2 (8 oz) packages refrigerated crescent dinner rolls (reduced-fat okay)
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (8 oz) can water chestnuts, drained
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
- Unroll the packages of crescent dough on a 15x10" jelly roll pan.
- Lay them side by side and press the perforations together on the bottom and up the sides of the pan to form a crust.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until light golden brown.
- In a medium bowl, combine the dry soup mix, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
- Squeeze as much liquid as possible from the thawed spinach and add it to the soup mixture.
- Chop the artichoke hearts and water chestnuts (or pulse them in a food processor) to a medium coarseness, not too fine.
- Add the artichokes, water chestnuts, garlic, and feta cheese to the soup mixture and combine thoroughly.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Bake for 10 – 12 minutes or until heated through.
Variations
- Add diced sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option.
- Top with chopped Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid excess liquid in the mixture.
- Pulse the artichoke hearts and water chestnuts in a food processor for a more uniform texture.
- Be sure to press the perforations of the crescent dough together to form a solid crust.
- Allow the appetizers to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grecian Appetizers with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or crackers for dipping.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid excess liquid in the mixture.
- Pulse the artichoke hearts and water chestnuts in a food processor for a more uniform texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
- Substitute fresh spinach for frozen spinach if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
Grecian Appetizers can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Grecian Appetizers on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Grecian Appetizers with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cocktail for the perfect appetizer pairing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Grecian Appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Grecian Appetizers contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Grecian Appetizers contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Grecian Appetizers contains approximately 12 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Grecian Appetizers contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Grecian Appetizers are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (mayonnaise, sour cream, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese) and wheat (crescent dough).
Summary
Grecian Appetizers are a delicious and flavorful dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates and protein, making them a great option for a light appetizer.
Summary
Grecian Appetizers are a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for any gathering or party. With a combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and more, these appetizers are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this flavorful dish with friends and family!
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a sunny afternoon in the quaint village of Mykonos, Greece, and I had stumbled upon a local market bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and homemade goods. As I wandered through the market, the aroma of herbs and spices wafted through the air, enticing my senses.
I came across a small stall run by an elderly Greek woman named Maria. She had a warm smile and twinkling eyes, and as I approached her stall, she greeted me with a friendly "Kalimera!" (Good morning). I couldn't help but be drawn to the array of colorful jars filled with olives, feta cheese, and various pickled vegetables.
Maria noticed my interest and asked if I would like to try some of her homemade Grecian appetizers. Without hesitation, I eagerly accepted her offer. She handed me a small plate filled with marinated olives, tangy feta cheese, and pickled vegetables. The flavors exploded in my mouth, and I was instantly hooked.
I complimented Maria on her delicious creations and asked if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. She chuckled and said, "Ah, my dear, these recipes have been passed down through generations in my family. I would be happy to teach you how to make them, but you must promise to keep them secret and continue the tradition."
I eagerly agreed to Maria's terms and spent the rest of the afternoon learning the art of making Grecian appetizers. She showed me how to marinate olives in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon zest, creating a perfect balance of briny and tangy flavors. Next, she taught me how to make tangy feta cheese by soaking it in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and spices.
As we worked together, Maria shared stories of her youth in Mykonos and the traditions that had been passed down through her family. I listened intently, soaking up every word like a sponge. I felt a deep connection to Maria and her culture, and I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart for years to come.
After a few hours of cooking and chatting, Maria deemed me ready to make Grecian appetizers on my own. She gave me a jar of her homemade olive oil and a small container of her special herb blend, along with detailed instructions on how to recreate her recipes at home. I thanked her profusely and promised to cherish these recipes and pass them down to future generations.
When I returned home, I wasted no time in trying out the recipes. I carefully followed Maria's instructions, savoring each step as I recreated the flavors of Mykonos in my own kitchen. The smell of garlic and herbs filled the air, transporting me back to that sunny afternoon in the village market.
The first bite of my homemade Grecian appetizers brought tears to my eyes. The flavors were just as I remembered them – fresh, tangy, and bursting with Mediterranean goodness. I knew in that moment that I had discovered a treasure, a recipe that would become a staple in my family for years to come.
As I shared my Grecian appetizers with friends and family, they were amazed at the authenticity and depth of flavor. They marveled at how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a rich and satisfying dish. I proudly shared the story of my encounter with Maria and how she had passed down her treasured recipes to me.
Now, whenever I make Grecian appetizers, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Mykonos, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of Greece. I feel connected to Maria and her heritage, and I am grateful for the chance encounter that brought us together.
In the end, it wasn't just a recipe that I acquired that day in the village market – it was a piece of history, a connection to a culture and a way of life that has endured for centuries. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
Categories
| Artichoke Recipes | Cheese Pastry Recipes | Croissant Recipes | Feta Recipes | Greek Appetizers | Greek Recipes | Spinach Recipes | Vegetarian Appetizer Recipes | Water Chestnut Recipes |