​Warm breezes and good times aren’t complete without a summer cocktail that initiates the kefi in all of us.

​We created three thirst-quenching libations featuring mastiha, ouzo, and brandy spirits with non-alcoholic substitutions to satisfy everyone in your party. Stin iyia sou! To your health!

Mediterranean Spirit
We call this a mastiha citrus-ade because it captures the true spirit of Greek kefi. Skinos provides the mastiha essence while fresh lemon and orange juices elevate this libation into a refreshing summer cocktail.
 
Servings: 1 cocktail
 
2 lemon wedges
6 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
1 tablespoon simple syrup
Crushed ice
3 tablespoons Skinos Mastiha Spirit (or 1 teaspoon mastiha spoon sweet)
1/2 cup fresh orange juice, chilled
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, chilled
Club soda, chilled
 
In a tall glass, mash together the lemon wedges and mint leaves with the simple syrup. Add 1/4 cup crushed ice, then stir in the mastiha and juices (if using mastiha spoon sweet, dissolve in a tablespoon of water before adding). Top with club soda and crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.

Lavender-Anise Spritzer
Ouzo’s black-licorice essence flavors this bubbly cocktail while lavender syrup deliciously complements it. Ouzon is alcohol free, so it’s the perfect substitute.
 
Servings: 1 cocktail
 
1/2 lemon, cut into thin slices, 1 slice reserved for garnish
6 fresh mint or basil leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
3 tablespoons ouzo (or Ouzon ouzo-flavored soda)
1 1/2 tablespoons Lavender Simple Syrup (recipe follows)
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup club soda, chilled
Turbinado sugar, for glass rim
Crushed ice
Fresh lavender sprig, for garnish
 
1. In a shaker, place the lemon slices and mint leaves; mash with a pestle. Add the ouzo, syrup, and juice. Stir well and strain twice. Stir in the soda.
 
2. To rim the glass, place the turbinado sugar in a shallow plate. Dip the top of a highball glass into the simple syrup, and dip the glass edge in the sugar. Carefully pour the cocktail into the rimmed glass, add crushed ice, and garnish with a lemon slice and sprigs of fresh mint and lavender.
 
Lavender Simple Syrup
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh or dried lavender blossoms
 
1. Combine the water, sugar, and lavender blossoms in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let syrup steep about 30 minutes.
 
2. Pour the syrup into a sterilized glass jar through a mesh strainer to remove the blossoms; let cool. (Can be refrigerated in a sealed glass jar up to 1 month or frozen up to 3 months.

Brandied Watermelon
This beverage is the epitome of refreshing with summer’s favorite fruit paired with Greek brandy and mastiha essence.
 
Servings: 1 cocktail
 
Ice cubes
3 tablespoons Metaxa brandy (or fresh orange juice)
1 tablespoon Skinos Mastiha Spirit (or 1 teaspoon mastiha spoon sweet)
1/2 cup watermelon juice, chilled
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice, chilled
1 tablespoon agave syrup
1/4 cup coconut water, chilled
 
GARNISH
Watermelon cube
Thinly-sliced lime
 
Place 3 to 4 ice cubes in a tall glass. Add the brandy, mastiha (if using mastiha spoon sweet, dissolve in a tablespoon of water before adding), juices, agave, and coconut water; stir to combine. Garnish with a lime slice and watermelon cube.

Recipes by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos
Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style

I hope you enjoyed this kick-off to summer! For more info on the spirits used in these recipes, check out our Get Into the Greek Spirit~Opa 2! post.

Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!

Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

Toursi (Τουρσί) is the Greek word for pickled vegetables and is a common, tasty way to preserve them throughout the cold winter months. The most common vegetables found in Toursi are carrots, cauliflower, string beans, red bell peppers, and green chili peppers, which are combined and pickled in a vinegar and/or brine solution. Every region in Greece has its own, unique way of making and flavoring Toursi, and so do we. In Karpathos, wild sea fennel is the main ingredient and an island favorite (and a taverna specialty~see Tavernas & Restaurants of Karpathos for a listing of the best eateries there).

Sea Fennel or Kritamo (Κρίταμο), also known as Rock Samphire, is a green, fern-like vegetable that can be found growing on rocky Mediterranean shores where it is directly exposed to drying sun, strong winds, and the salty sea—it not only survives these extreme elements, it thrives in their presence. Sea fennel has a naturally occurring salty taste and resembles its aromatic namesake, fresh fennel, in flavor. It makes a stunning garnish and, in Karpathos, is especially enjoyed pickled.

One of our subscribers who recently vacationed in Karpathos wrote to us and shared her experience with the island’s pickled sea fennel. She mentioned how much she loved it, asked where she could find it, and wanted to get a recipe. We thought it was a great idea for a blog so everyone can enjoy.

Be sure to choose young sea fennel before it flowers. If you can’t find sea fennel in your area, substitute thinly sliced fresh fennel with the chopped fronds.

2 cups water
1 cup cider vinegar
1½ teaspoons sea salt
1 garlic clove, halved
2 small bay leaves
2 pounds wild sea fennel, rinsed
2 pre-sterilized 1-pint jars
2 lemon slices
Extra-virgin olive oil, for serving

1. Combine water, vinegar, salt, garlic, and bay leaves in a large saucepot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add sea fennel and cook until just tender, about 5 minutes (do not overcook).

2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer sea fennel, garlic and bay leaves to sterilized jars, dividing evenly. Top each with a lemon slice. Carefully pour hot vinegar mixture over each, filling within ½ inch of the top of the jars. Firmly but gently tap each jar against the counter to release any trapped air or run a knife along the inside edge to the bottom. Wipe the top of the jars dry and cover tightly with the lids. Refrigerate overnight before serving. (Can be stored in the refrigerator up to 1 month.)

3. To serve: Drizzle the chilled Toursi with olive oil for a condiment or side dish, add to salads with citrus sections, or use as a garnish for fish or meats.

Recipe by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos
Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style  

​I hope you enjoyed pickling with us and we welcome you to send us your requests or ideas for future Kukla's Kouzina blogs. To learn more about Karpathian cuisine, check out our blog Greek Cooking with a Karpathos Island Twist. Stay tuned for more upcoming segments on uniquely Karpathian foods and culture!

For more Karpathian/Greek recipes, check out our new cookbooks Kukla’s Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style, Meze (Appetizers & Petite Plates) and Spreads & Dips, available on Amazon. These are the first two books in a series that we have developed and we’re excited to see this dream become reality! For details about the books and us, go to our BOOKS page.

Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.

Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!

Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!

Kelly

Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    

Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

Our Karpathos getaway travels into the island’s kitchens this week for a look at the unique style of cooking that makes Kukla’s Kouzina tick!

Step into our kouzina and learn about what makes our cuisine so different from the other corners of Greece, and what makes it so irresistible. 

Last week you got to see the beauty of Karpathos, this week you get to taste it!  

Kalos orisate!  (kah-LOHS oh-REE-sah-teh) Welcome!

Karpathian cuisine is as awe-inspiring as the Titans, the elder gods who made Karpathos their home. The island's history dates as far back as 2500 B.C. and its occupation by numerous peoples and their cultures is reflected in its cuisine. This history tells the story of pieces of a puzzle that, over centuries, came together to form what is now known as Karpathian cuisine.

This cuisine's diversity is an effect of not only climate and location, but also of occupation by various civilizations recurring throughout time as a result of wars and invasions.  

Records show that Karpathos was inhabited by numerous outside cultures which began in Neolithic times with the Minoans, who introduced a variety of foods from the sea, as well as savory olives and their complex flavorful oils, herbs such as oregano, and thyme-scented honey. 

The Minoans were followed by the Mycenaeans, whose culture was rich in farm-fresh, as well as dried, fruits and vegetables, sheep and goat dairy products, game meats, chicken, celery, cardamom, mint, and fennel. Then the Phoenicians transported wine to the island’s shores. The Dorians came next with their Spartan diet of olive oil, garlic, pomegranates, figs, whole grains, apples, grapes, flax seeds, lentils, and a number of other high-nutrient staples we now refer to as superfoods. The Romans arrived with barley, millet, wheat, and cheese, all of which were infused with honey in certain recipes. The Venetians instituted pasta into the Karpathian diet, which led to the creation of pastitsio. And the language of the Ottomans inspired recipe names such as moussaka, tzatziki, giouvarlakia, keftedes, and mboureki. There was even a Genovese basil-loving pirate, Moresco, who ruled over the island! Aromas of citrus, allspice, cinnamon, and crystallized vanilla dominate Karpathian cooking, and it is unknown whether they sprouted here and were taught to others or vice versa. Tomatoes became incorporated into Greek cuisine in the late nineteenth century and were widely used in Dodecanese cooking during the Italian occupation from 1911 to 1947, and still are today. This is just one element exclusive to the nature of cooking in this area. 

The Italian occupation resulted in a marriage between the two styles of cooking, and this melding is well represented in the meals you’ll encounter on this island, like pasta with meat sauce or makarounes. Some restaurants feature both cuisines and you’ll see items like shrimp parmigiana and pizza on the menu alongside moussaka and souvlaki. 
   
These influences, combined with the island’s faithful native roots, have made Karpathos incomparable in its novel style and preparation of food, creating a culinary icon that lives only on this distinct island and is enhanced in the pages of our cookbook.

The differences between Karpathian cooking and mainstream Greek cuisine are apparent in a number of dishes that share a common name but actually have their own distinct food personalities. The following examples are proof positive that a rose, or dish, by any other name is just as sweet…or savory.    

Savory spanakopites Karpathikes do not mimic the well-known spanakopita but exhibit their own distinctive, undeniable charm. Spice-scented homemade dough half-moons are filled with a spinach, rice, and onion mixture that is lightly flavored with lemon juice and herbs (no cheese in these, and you won’t miss it!). These individual pies are baked until risen, golden and seriously aromatic. 

On the island, especially in Olympos, baking is done in stone or brick communal ovens outside of the home. The food not only tastes better but it keeps the house cool…seriously important when it’s warm-to-hot most of the year. A classic case of If you can't stand the heat, take it out of the kitchen!

In the world of everyday pasta dishes, most people think of a tomato-based sauce. In Karpathos, pasta takes on a whole new meaning. Makarounes, an island specialty, is a peasant dish whose star ingredient is a homemade, finger-rolled, shell-shaped pasta (similar to cavatelli). The makarounes are cooked, then tossed with onion and garlic that were sautéed in olive oil, and topped with grated hard myzithra cheese (sheep and/or goat’s milk). Although this sounds too simple to fall into the realm of Greek cuisine, one forkful will prove that you don’t need a dozen ingredients and hours slaving over a hot stove to make a delicious Karpathian dish. Quick, easy, and entirely satisfying!

In Greek, kleftiko means stolen. In Karpathian history, thieves (kleftes) lived hidden in the mountains and would steal a lamb or goat, then they'd slow-cook the meat (up to 24 hours) in the ground in a sealed pit so there would be no smell, no visible smoke, and no sign of a stolen animal. The meat was so tender and delicious that the recipe was passed down through the generations and was named after the thieves. In Karpathos, kleftiko is still made the old-fashioned way (isn’t that usually the best?), on the bone, marinated in garlic and lemon juice, and slow-baked in a pit-oven. Sometimes it's wrapped in parchment and baked in a clay pot.

Unlike mainland baklava, mbaklavas Karpathikos is made with an olive oil-based pastry dough that is rolled into a spiral of thin layers, then sliced, and deep fried. Once drained and cooled, the diamond-shaped, flaky slices are drenched in a fragrant, spiced honey syrup and sprinkled with walnuts. Made for special celebrations, these extraordinary treats are piled high on trays, wrapped in colorful cellophane and tied with elaborate bows. When dining on the island, you can find these at just about every restaurant and it’s the first thing on the menu at bakeries.

We hope you enjoyed our Karpathian kitchen raid. In next week's blog Tavernas & Restaurants of Karpathos, we'll take you into the best tavernas and restaurants in Karpathos where the foods we just talked about leap off the menus, and the hosts make you feel right at home! For our classic Karpathian recipe for Kritamo Toursi, check out Pickling~Greek Island Style.

Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.

Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!

Until then~
Kali orexi!  Good appetite!

Kelly

Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!

Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

For centuries, village cooking (horiatiki magiriki) has been known for its simplicity and affordability, which is why it’s also referred to as peasant food. Today, this fare is sought after for its rustic deliciousness.
 
While searching for a topic for my next blog, I went to my comments folder and found a request we received from one of our subscribers:
 
My mother came from Epirus, Greece...and with four children, she was
very economical with our dinners. She never missed cooking a meal. I
remember many stovetop dinners as well as oven dinners that had very
little meat and yet were so filling.....like the spanakorizo. With very few
ingredients, we had wonderful dinners. Can you highlight weekday dinner
recipes that come from the villages which do not have such a kitchen list of
so many ingredients? I think these would be considered "village foods."
 
Thank you,
Aphrodite
 
Having been raised by a mom who celebrated horio (village) foods from Karpathois, it seemed like an ideal time to feature weekday Greek village meals that are appetizing and healthy, while going easy on the wallet. Inspired, I went to work on turning Aphrodite’s request into this week’s post, bringing that time-honored simplicity into our lives.
 
Most of these dishes make great leftovers, and the salad can be made ahead, adding the dressing just before serving.

​MELITZANES STIFADO  (STEWED EGGPLANT AND POTATOES)
(Μελιτζάνες στιφάδο, pronounced meh-lee-TZAH-nehs stee-FAH-thoh)

​This traditional dish of eggplant, potato, tomato, olive oil, onion, and herbs is known throughout Greece, with a few regional tweaks. This cooking method brings out the flavor of the veggies and makes for a satisfying stew.
 
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Makes: 4 servings
 
Sea salt
1 pound eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes 
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
3/4 cup olive oil, divided
3 medium onions, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, cored, seeded, cut into 1-inch dice
1 1/2 pounds plum tomatoes, chopped (or 2 3/4 cups canned crushed tomatoes)
1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup flour
 
1. In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon salt and 1 cup cold water; stir until dissolved. Add the eggplant and enough water to cover (weighting down with a small dish to keep the eggplant submerged); let stand at least 30 minutes or up to an hour.
 
2. Meanwhile, fill another large bowl halfway with water. Peel the potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes and transfer to water in bowl. Make sure they’re completely submerged to prevent discoloration. Set aside.
 
3. In a large pot over medium heat, heat 1/2 cup olive oil, then add the onion and bell pepper; cook until softened and just starting to brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato, parsley, 1 1/2 cups water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and add to the pot. Cook until the potatoes are just fork tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
 
4. Meanwhile, drain the eggplant and pat dry with paper towels. Line a cookie sheet with paper towels. In a large skillet over high heat, heat remaining 1/4 cup olive oil. Coat the eggplant on all sides with flour, shaking off excess, and fry, turning every couple of minutes, until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes. Transfer to prepared sheet to drain.
 
5. Gently stir eggplant into the tomatoes and potatoes, cover, and cook 10 minutes more.

​HORIATIKI / XORIATIKI SALATA  (GREEK VILLAGE SALAD)
(χωριάτικη σαλάτα, pronounced hohr-YAH-tee-kee sah-LAH-tah)
 
This is the salad that comes to mind when you think Greek! For a protein-packed main course, add grilled chicken.
 
Total prep time: 15 minutes
Makes: 4 to 6 servings
 
4 ripe medium-size or 8 plum tomatoes, cut into thick slices (or 3 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved)
1 seedless cucumber, halved lengthwise and cut into thick slices
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 red or green bell pepper, sliced
1/2 cup kalamata olives
1 8-ounce block Greek feta cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
*
DRESSING
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 teaspoon fresh oregano leaves
Pinch sea salt
Pinch freshly ground pepper
*
Crusty bread, for serving
 
1. In a large serving bowl, toss together the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, and olives. (Can be made a few hours ahead without adding dressing. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.)
 
2. Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together all of the salad ingredients until emulsified. (Can be made up to 5 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.)
 
3. Toss the feta and dressing into the salad. Serve with bread on the side.

​GIGANTES PLAKI (BAKED GIANT BEANS)
(γίγαντες πλακί, pronounced YEE-ghahn-dehs plah-KEE)

​In Greek, the term plaki refers to a baked dish that includes olive oil, tomato, and vegetables.

These giant Greek beans baked in a rich tomato sauce are loaded with protein and fiber, making this dish a hearty main course, but it can easily be served up as a delicious meze on toasted bread.
 
Prep time: 10 minutes, plus standing
Cooking time: about 30 minutes (plus 50 minutes for dried beans)
Baking time: 1 hour
Makes: 4 to 6 servings
 
1 1/2 pounds dried butter beans (or 4 16-ounce cans, drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 1/4 teaspoons sea salt, divided
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth, divided
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch dried Greek oregano 
Pinch sugar 
*
1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, for serving
5 ounces crumbled Greek feta, for serving (optional)
Crusty bread or rusk bread, for serving
 
1. If using dried beans: In a large bowl, soak the dried beans overnight in enough water to cover by 1 inch. Drain, rinse, then place in a large saucepan with enough water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until just tender (not soft), about 50 minutes. Drain and set aside.
 
2. Heat oven to 350°F. In a stockpot over medium heat, heat 1/4 cup olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook until onion has softened (don’t brown), about 10 minutes. Dissolve the tomato paste in 1/4 cup of broth, then add to the onion with the crushed tomatoes, pepper, cinnamon, oregano, sugar, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Simmer until the sauce begins to thicken, about 20 minutes.
 
3. Bring remaining broth to a boil. Stir the broth, drained beans, and remaining 1/4 cup olive oil into the sauce. Transfer to a large ovenproof casserole dish or baking pan, spreading out evenly, and bake, uncovered, about 1 hour, until the beans are tender and creamy and the sauce has thickened and is bubbling. Let cool about 15 minutes before serving.
 
4. To serve: Sprinkle with parsley and top with feta, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature with bread.

​SPANAKORIZO (SPINACH AND RICE)
(σπανακόρυζο, pronounced spah- nah-KOH-ree-zoh)

​This was a side-dish staple in our kouzina growing up and it was one of our favorite ways to enjoy spinach (spanaki). The rice (rizi) made it filling and scallion and herbs make it flavorful, ideal alongside seafood when fasting or anytime. Though there are a number of variations (like adding chickpeas or tomatoes), we’re featuring the beloved one-pot classic here. Feel free to serve with Greek feta or yogurt, if desired. This recipe pairs well with our Baked Fish recipe (below).
 
Prep time: 15 minutes, plus standing
Cooking time: about 35 minutes
Makes: 8 servings
 
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
4 scallions, chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 cup long-grain rice
2 pounds spinach leaves, washed well, chopped, and drained
1 teaspoon dried mint
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth, or water
Juice of 2 lemons
Lemon wedges, for serving
 
1. In a large stockpot over medium heat, heat the olive oil, then add the scallion and sauté until softened, 8 to 10 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until aromatic, about 1 minute. Stir in the rice, coating with oil. Add the spinach, mint, and dill, stirring to cook down. Cook just until the spinach wilts, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the broth or water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes, adding additional water as needed.
 
2. Stir in lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

PSARI PLAKI  (BAKED FISH WITH TOMATO, BELL PEPPER, AND OLIVES)
(ψάρι πλακί, pronounced PSAH-ree plah-KEE)

This is a popular Greek-Island dish. The tomato sauce’s intense flavor pairs well with an array of white-fleshed fish. This recipe goes well with our Spanakorizo, rice, or potatoes.
 
KOUZINA TIP: To save time, do step 1 first, then prepare the remaining ingredients.
 
Prep time: 20 minutes, plus chilling
Cooking time: about 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Makes: 4 servings
 
4 cod, halibut, or striped bass fillets (6 ounces each), patted dry
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for dish
Sea salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 medium red onion, cut in half lengthwise and thinly sliced
1 small red or green bell pepper, cut into thin strips
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (in season, use 1 1/2 pounds chopped fresh ripe tomatoes)
1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, divided
1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
 
1. Season the fish with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Oil a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and arrange the fish in a single layer in the dish. Drizzle with the lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour.
 
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the oil, then add the onion and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until softened and starting to brown, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until aromatic, about 1 minute. Add the wine and cook until reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato, 1/4 cup parsley, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper and bring to a simmer. Simmer until the sauce has started to thicken, about 15 minutes.
 
3. Meanwhile, heat oven to 400°F. Pour the sauce over the fish, sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup parsley and the olives. Bake about 15 minutes, until the fish is opaque and just starts to flake easily with a fork. Sprinkle with cheese and serve.
 
Recipes by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos
Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style  
 
I hope you enjoyed this week’s celebration of village cooking. Stay tuned for more Greek recipes in upcoming blogs.
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

The number eight symbolizes joy, abundance, good luck, harmony, and power, so we’re feeling pretty good about turning 8.

As we celebrate eight years filled with hundreds and hundreds of blogs, two cookbooks, and an exciting new cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, we’re sharing one of our favorite dessert recipes, Pantespani with Whipped Cream and Strawberries—it’s our way of saying thank you for your follows, likes, comments, and views.

​Step into our kouzina and lets bake up a Magic-8 cake!

Pantespani / Pandespani (Παντεσπάνι) is a light cake similar to sponge cake. instead of a traditional syrup, we added whipped cream and fresh strawberries to perfectly decorate this brilliant dessert. Serve with a Greek coffee or a shot of brandy, light a candle, and celebrate with us! 

KOUZINA TIP: For the whipped cream, chill the mixing bowl and beaters at least 1 hour before using. If you don’t have vanilia, use 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and beat in after the sugar.
 
PREP TIME: 20 minutes plus standing
BAKING TIME: 35 minutes for 9-inch springform cake
SERVINGS: 6 to 8
 
6 large eggs, separated
1 cup unbleached cake flour (not self-rising), plus more for pan
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Pinch vanilia (vanilla powder)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
Zest of 1 lemon or orange
3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
 
WHIPPED CREAM
2 cups cold heavy or whipping cream
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
*
6 large strawberries, cored and sliced
5 large whole or halved strawberries, for top of cake
 
1. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour one 9-inch springform pan (or three round or square 9-inch pans). Line the bottom of each with parchment paper; grease and flour the paper. Separate the cold eggs, placing the whites in a clean mixer bowl and the yolks in another bowl. Cover both with plastic wrap and let stand until they are room temperature, about 30 minutes.
 
2. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and the vanilia. Set aside.
 
3. In a mixer bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually beat in 2/3 cup granulated sugar; beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, one at a time, until combined well and lightened in color. Stir in the zest. Set aside while beating the egg whites.
 
4. Using clean whisk attachment, beat the egg whites until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and beat to soft peaks. Gradually add the remaining 1/3 cup granulated sugar and beat to shiny, just stiff peaks.
 
5. Sift one third of the flour mixture over the egg yolk mixture and, using a rubber spatula, gently fold in until just combined; repeat with the remaining flour mixture, one third at a time. Gently fold a quarter of the beaten egg whites into the cake batter until combined and lightened, then gradually and gently fold in the remaining whites just until combined (do not overmix or the batter will deflate). Pour into the prepared pan(s), spreading evenly, and bake 28 to 35 minutes for 9-inch springform (20 to 24 minutes if making three thinner layers), until risen, golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs clinging to it. Transfer to a rack and let cool in pan(s) one hour. Invert cake(s) onto a wire rack(s), peel off the paper, and let cool completely. (Can be made ahead. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 2 days.) If made in one springform pan, cut the cake horizontally into three equal layers.
 
6. Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled mixer bowl using chilled beaters, beat the heavy cream on high speed to soft peaks. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar just to stiff peaks (do not overbeat). (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day.)
 
7. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, top with one quarter of the whipped cream and half of the sliced strawberries; repeat with a second layer, whipped cream and remaining sliced strawberries. Top with the remaining cake layer and cover top and sides with the remaining whipped cream. Decorate with the whole or halved strawberries and serve.
 
Recipes copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style
 
Thanks for celebrating our website’s 8-Year Anniversary and for supporting us along the way. You’re an important part of our journey! I’ll be sharing more fun recipes in upcoming blogs, so check back to see what’s cooking at Kukla’s. For more about our Kukla’s Kouzina journey, visit our Coming Full Circle post. For photos of our foods, Kukla, us, and our next generation, visit our Gallery page.

Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for celebrating with us and we’ll see you next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

​Copyright © 2021 Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

Bright Week is the fast-free week that follows Holy Week and Pascha, so we’re celebrating our Lord’s Resurrection with Greek lamb-burgers stuffed with feta and topped with tzatziki.
 
Following Bright Week we resume our normal fast on Wednesdays and Fridays. To learn more about Bright Week, check out our blog Bright Week Kouzina. More about Greek Orthodox Lenten cuisine can be found in our blog, Lenten Cuisine~A Faith Inspired Journey.

Juicy, delicious, and simple-to-prepare is the perfect description of our Greek-island Burger (known as bifteki). What makes it Greek/Karpathian is the herb-and-spice combination—like parsley, mint, and cumin—that flavors the meat, an oregano-laced feta that fills it, and a yogurt-cucumber dip that tops it (see our how-to biftekia videos on YouTube: Biftekia Sliders – The Basics and Filled Biftekia Sliders). The traditional base for Greek burgers is lamb, but you can substitute equal amounts of lamb and beef. Beef and pork or beef alone can be used for a less traditional version. Go all Greek and serve these biftekia with baby lettuce, red onion, ripe tomato, cucumber, and olives in pita bread with tzatziki.

KOUZINA TIP: Don’t overhandle the meat when preparing the burgers and flip only once halfway through cooking to avoid the burgers becoming tough.
 
2 large unpeeled garlic cloves
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 pounds lean ground lamb (or an equal mixture of lamb and beef)
1/2 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup grated red onion (for more flavor, sauté in olive oil until softened)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
*
Pita breads (with pockets) or burger buns
Organic mixed baby lettuce
Red onion, thinly sliced (we like to caramelize them, using 2 onions)
Ripe tomato, thinly sliced
Cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 to 1/3 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
Tzatziki sauce (your own or try ours in our Meze and Spreads & Dips cookbooks)
 
1. Heat oven to 400°F. Tightly wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 40 minutes, until softened. Let stand until cool enough to handle, then peel and mash; set aside. (You can also toast the cloves in a small skillet over medium-high heat, cooking until starting to brown, about 5 minutes. Let stand until cool enough to handle. Peel and mince. This is not as flavorful as roasting but when pressed for time, it works!)
 
2. Meanwhile, heat outdoor grill on medium (if cooking indoors, see step 5). In a small bowl, combine the feta and oregano for filling; set aside.
 
3. In a medium bowl, break up the lamb (or combine lamb and beef). Add the roasted garlic, parsley, grated onion, olive oil, mint, cumin, salt, and pepper; mix just until combined well but don’t overhandle. Divide into 4 or 5 patties and gently form each into a ball. Make a dent in the center of each and divide the feta filling among the burgers. Shape the meat around the filling, covering it completely. Flatten each into oval (Greek style) or round patties. Transfer to an airtight container, cover, and refrigerate until ready to cook (chilling will ensure a juicy burger).
 
5. Oil grill grates and place patties on grill. Cover and cook until desired doneness, turning just once halfway through, 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium to medium-well. (To cook indoors, oil and heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Cook patties 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning once halfway through.) Let patties rest about 5 minutes before assembling burgers.
 
6. Meanwhile, grill the pitas or buns until warm and very lightly toasted, about 1 minute per side. For pitas, cut in half and open pockets. Serve in pita (or buns) with lettuce, onion, tomato, cucumber, olives, and tzatziki.
 
Recipe by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos
Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style  
 
More about Greek meat and how to prepare it can be found in our Meat the Greek blog.

I hope you enjoyed Bright Lamb Week. More recipes can be found in our Meze and Spreads & Dips cookbooks. Stay tuned for future blogs on foods, customs, and spiritual awakening.

Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you next Monday for a special Kukla’s Kouzina Birthday blog. Join us for a celebratory post dedicated to you, our loyal followers, who have helped make us a success!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly
 
Resources
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

​Copyright © Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / ​Flippin’ Greek!™/
​The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

Pascha (Greek Easter) is traditionally celebrated with lamb, and our Seared Greek Lamb with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is an entrée that we created to impress. This quick-and-easy main dish leaves you plenty of time to prepare the sides, like our Classic Greek Lemon-Oregano Roasted Potatoes (recipe follows). Get ready to say “Opa!” (but don’t break the dishes).
 
The recipes below partner with the corresponding how-to episodes on our new YouTube cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, to show you how we do it in our kouzina. Join us!

We marinated the lamb in our classic fresh lemon juice-oregano-garlic-olive oil before searing it to juicy perfection. We then topped the slices with a creamy Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, adding flavor and color to this exceptional dish.
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes plus standing
COOKING TIME: about 25 minutes
SERVINGS: 6
 
2 1/2 pounds butterflied leg of lamb (deboned)
 
MARINADE
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
*
3 garlic cloves, sliced
 
ROASTED RED PEPPER SAUCE
2 jarred roasted red bell peppers, drained and patted dry with paper towels
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Pinch Aleppo pepper
*
1/4 cup grated kefalograviera cheese (optional)
 
1. Rinse lamb and pat dry. Place in a large casserole dish or roasting pan.
 
2. Make marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub all over the lamb, covering all sides. Make small slits in the meat and stuff with garlic slices. Cover and let stand at room temperature 30 minutes.
 
3. Heat grill or grill pan and place lamb, fat side down, on grill. Cook 10 minutes per side for medium-rare (12 minutes per side for medium, 14 minutes per side for well-done). Transfer to a warmed plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest 10 minutes before cutting.
 
4. Meanwhile, make Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: In a food processor, add the roasted peppers, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and the Aleppo pepper. Puree until smooth. Cover and set aside. (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Serve at room temperature.)
 
5. Slice the lamb against the grain (like a steak). Drizzle the sauce over the center of the lamb and sprinkle with the kefalograviera cheese (if using). Serve immediately.

The tangy, melt-in-your-mouth Greek potatoes everyone loves are a must to serve alongside lamb for Easter! They also go well with roast chicken or just about any dish—easy to prepare, hard to stop eating!
 
KOUZINA TIP: Refrigerated leftover potatoes are never as moist as when they’re fresh from the oven. Yukon Gold potatoes are the less starchy option, resembling the Greek variety, so they don’t dry out in the refrigerator. Russet potatoes are great if you’re not saving leftovers.
 
PREP TIME 15 minutes
BAKING TIME 1 hour
MAKES 6 to 8 servings
 
3 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon dried Greek oregano
2 teaspoons sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup chicken broth
​Fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, for garnish
 
1. Heat oven to 375°F and arrange rack in center. In a large roasting pan, toss together the potatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until the potatoes are coated and all the ingredients are combined well. Add the broth to the pan, taking care not to rinse the seasoning off the potatoes.
 
2. Roast about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes, until the potatoes are golden, the edges are crisp, and they’re fork tender. Just before serving, sprinkle with parsley, if desired.
 
Recipes copyright © Kukla's Kouzina 
 
I hope you enjoy making our Pascha recipes. For those of you who are celebrating, Kali Anastasi & Christos Anesti !
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you here and on YouTube next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

 
ABOUT Kukla’s Kouzina Flippin’ Greek! ™
Flippin’ Greek! ™ is our new cooking series on YouTube and the next exciting chapter in our kouzina. Every Monday we flip a familiar non-Greek recipe to Greek-island style using ingredients and cooking techniques found in Karpathos. Each episode runs 2 to 15 minutes, the perfect length for us to quickly show you how to recreate foods and beverages/cocktails right alongside us.

The ingredients used in Greek-island cuisine is what sets this style of cooking apart from standard Greek fare, giving meals a fresh take that keeps them interesting. Karpathos, the home of Kukla’s Kouzina, has its own unique style, and we’ll show you how to take common dishes and reinvent them into Karpathian versions with our simple substitutions.
 
Many think that everyday Greek cooking is made up of dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), moussaka, and pastitsio. These are classics for sure, but too time-consuming to make on a regular basis. During our time in Karpathos, we learned that the locals’ quick meals made from the island’s staples like fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, spices, and protein, prepared using certain methods, came out tasting Greek-island delicious. So we thought this would be a great way to bring our hometown flavor into YOUR kouzina, adding some spicy variety to your life while keeping it simple and fast. Recipes for each week will be posted right here on our blog with links to the episodes.

​Copyright © 2021 Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

Fish is the centerpiece of every Palm Sunday meal and our Greek Walnut-Crusted Baked Salmon is not only delicious and healthy, but is also a welcome change of pace from the usual lemon sole. This quick and easy main course leaves you plenty of time to cook up the sides—we suggest serving with our Bulgur (Pourgouri) Salad, Green Beans with Sautéed Onion & Toasted Almonds, and Herbed Potato Skordalia (recipes and links follow).
 
The recipes below partner with the corresponding how-to episodes on our new YouTube cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, to show you how we do it in our kouzina. Join us!

We created a crunchy, flavorful nut topping that turns salmon into an elegant meal worthy of centerpiece status on your Palm Sunday table. The topping dresses up the fish while keeping it from drying out as it bakes to perfection. Now that’s the Greek way of doing things!
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes
COOKING/BAKING TIME: 15 to 20 minutes
SERVINGS: 4
 
WALNUT TOPPING
2 cups chopped walnuts
1/2 cup plain or whole-wheat breadcrumbs
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons minced garlic
Pinch sea salt and freshly ground pepper
*
4 portions (6 ounces each) salmon fillets
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
 
1. Heat oven to 375°F.
 
2. Make Walnut Topping: In a bowl, stir together the nuts, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup olive oil, the parsley, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until combined and the breadcrumbs are moistened.
 
3. Brush the salmon fillets on all sides with the olive oil and season with the salt and pepper. Transfer to a large baking dish and top the fillets evenly with the walnut topping, lightly pressing down to adhere. Bake about 15 minutes for medium (the fish should flake easily with a fork), about 20 minutes for well done.

​This Greek Tabbouleh cousin is not a one-size-fits-all kind of dish. Depending on the region in Greece, this salad can be made a variety of ways and is known by a couple of different names, pligouri salata and pourgouri salata. In Karpathos, it goes by the latter. Whether you serve this salad as a main dish, as a side with fish or chicken, or in a whole-wheat pita, it’s something you’ll make often and enjoy.
 
TOTAL PREP TIME: 25 minutes plus standing
SERVINGS: 4 to 6
 
1 cup dried medium-grain bulgur
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 
1 seedless cucumber, peeled and diced
1 1/4 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved 
1 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
3/4 cup crumbled Greek feta, divided (2 tablespoons reserved for topping)
1/2 cup sliced kalamata olives 
1/3 cup chopped shallot
1/4 cup toasted pine/pignoli nuts
1 scallion, chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint, plus sprigs for garnish
Sea salt
Freshly ground pepper
 
1. In a large bowl, cover the bulgur with hot water by 2 inches and let soak 1 hour, until tender and fluffy. Drain in a fine sieve, pressing firmly to expel excess water.
 
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Toss in the bulgur, cucumber, tomatoes, parsley, feta, olives, shallot, mint, scallion, and nuts. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Let stand at least 30 minutes before serving for flavors to develop. (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. Bring to room temperature before serving.) Top with reserved 2 tablespoons feta and serve.

For our this Palm Sunday favorite, we’re tossing fresh green beans with golden onion, garlic, and crunchy almonds. It’s one of our elegant go-to recipes that we make often, and you will too.
 
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOKING TIME: about 15 minutes
SERVINGS: 4 to 6
 
1 1/2 pounds green beans, rinsed and trimmed/string removed
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, sliced (about 2 cups)
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Sea salt
Freshly ground pepper
1/3 cup toasted slivered almonds
 
1. In a large pot fitted with a steamer basket, bring 1 inch of water to a boil. Place the green beans in the basket, cover, and cook until bright green, about 5 minutes.
 
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened and golden, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until golden, about 2 minutes more. Add the green beans and almond slivers to the onion mixture, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat well with oil. Cook until the beans are just fork-tender, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve warm.

Skordalia (garlic sauce/dip) is a must for Palm Sunday and this re-creation using our leftover Classic Greek Lemon-Oregano Roasted Potatoes (episode 121) kicks up the flavor of traditional skordalia. Once you’ve tasted this, you’ll never go back!
 
TOTAL PREP TIME 5 minutes, plus more for the roasted potatoes
MAKES 4 servings
 
8 ounces leftover Classic Greek Lemon-Oregano Roasted Potatoes, at room temperature
1 to 4 cloves garlic (to taste), minced
2 to 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 to 3 tablespoons chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon white-wine or apple cider vinegar

In a food processor, pulse the potatoes until pureed. With processor running, add the garlic, olive oil, broth, and vinegar, processing until creamy and fluffy (adding additional oil and/or broth to reach desired consistency).
 
Alternative: Make 1 recipe Skordalia (in our Meze and Spreads & Dips cookbooks), substituting 1/3 recipe leftover Classic Greek Lemon-Oregano Roasted Potatoes for the boiled potatoes.
 
Recipes copyright © Kukla's Kouzina 
 
I hope you enjoy making this special Palm Sunday fish luncheon. Join us next week for our Greek Pascha (Easter) lamb menu—Greek meat that says “Opa”!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you here and on YouTube next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

 
ABOUT Kukla’s Kouzina Flippin’ Greek! ™
Flippin’ Greek! ™ is our new cooking series on YouTube and the next exciting chapter in our kouzina. Every Monday we flip a familiar non-Greek recipe to Greek-island style using ingredients and cooking techniques found in Karpathos. Each episode runs 2 to 15 minutes, the perfect length for us to quickly show you how to recreate foods and beverages/cocktails right alongside us.

The ingredients used in Greek-island cuisine is what sets this style of cooking apart from standard Greek fare, giving meals a fresh take that keeps them interesting. Karpathos, the home of Kukla’s Kouzina, has its own unique style, and we’ll show you how to take common dishes and reinvent them into Karpathian versions with our simple substitutions.
 
Many think that everyday Greek cooking is made up of dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), moussaka, and pastitsio. These are classics for sure, but too time-consuming to make on a regular basis. During our time in Karpathos, we learned that the locals’ quick meals made from the island’s staples like fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, spices, and protein, prepared using certain methods, came out tasting Greek-island delicious. So we thought this would be a great way to bring our hometown flavor into YOUR kouzina, adding some spicy variety to your life while keeping it simple and fast. Recipes for each week will be posted right here on our blog with links to the episodes.

​Copyright © 2021 Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

When it comes to an easy Lenten meal, a protein-and-fiber-packed bean-burrito wrap is a welcome change of pace. Flip it Greek and enjoy that Mediterranean flavor we all love!
 
The recipe below partners with the corresponding how-to episode on our new YouTube cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, to show you how we do it in our kouzina. Join us!

This Greek-style burrito recipe has the protein power of lentils and chickpeas with the flavor punch of crunchy almonds, pistachios, and cashews. We neatly wrapped this hearty filling in crisp flaky phyllo and baked the burritos to golden perfection. When not fasting, serve these packets with tzatziki (cucumber-yogurt dip, from our Meze and Spreads & Dips cookbooks) on the side, for dipping.
 
PREP TIME: 15 minutes, plus standing
COOKING TIME: about 45 minutes
BAKING TIME: 25 minutes
SERVINGS: 4 to 8
 
1/2 cup dried lentils, picked over and rinsed
1 3/4 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons almonds
2 tablespoons pistachios
2 tablespoons cashews
1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained well
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped scallion
1 plum tomato, chopped and liquid drained
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
*
12 (14-by-18-inch) sheets #4 or #5, or 8 sheets #7 phyllo dough, thawed according to package directions
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing phyllo
 
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils, broth, and bay leaf and add enough cold water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until tender, 30 to 40 minutes. All the liquid should be absorbed. If not, drain well. Discard the bay leaf.
 
2. In a food processor, pulse the nuts until chopped. Add the chickpeas and pulse until coarsely chopped. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the lentils, bell pepper, scallion, tomato, 2 tablespoons olive oil, the salt, and Aleppo pepper until combined well.
 
3. Heat oven to 375°F and arrange rack in center. Place 1 sheet of phyllo on work surface with the narrow side facing you (keeping remaining sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel or a sheet of plastic wrap) and brush all the way to the edges with olive oil. Repeat layering for a total of 3 sheets of #4 or #5 dough, or 2 sheets of #7 dough, brushing the top sheet with olive oil.
 
4. Spoon one quarter of the legume mixture in the center of the phyllo. Fold over the edge of the phyllo closest to you, covering the filling. Brush with olive oil, then fold in the sides, brushing them with olive oil. Fold the filled side over to the end of the phyllo, trimming any overhang, and generously brush all over with olive oil. (Can be made ahead. Place in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze up to 1 month. Bake, unthawed, as directed, adding about 10 minutes to baking time.) Place, seam-side down, on a small heavy-duty rimmed baking sheet. Repeat with remaining phyllo, oil, and filling to make 3 more burritos.
 
5. Bake about 25 minutes, until golden throughout. Serve immediately or let cool, place in an airtight container, and refrigerate overnight (reheat in a 350°F oven until warm throughout).
 
Recipes copyright © Kukla's Kouzina 
 
I hope you enjoy making our Legume Phyllo-Burritos. Join us next week for a Palm Sunday Greek fish recipe—no meat, lots of flavor!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you here and on YouTube next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

ABOUT Kukla’s Kouzina Flippin’ Greek! ™
Flippin’ Greek! ™ is our new cooking series on YouTube and the next exciting chapter in our kouzina. Every Monday we flip a familiar non-Greek recipe to Greek-island style using ingredients and cooking techniques found in Karpathos. Each episode runs 2 to 15 minutes, the perfect length for us to quickly show you how to recreate foods and beverages/cocktails right alongside us.
 
The ingredients used in Greek-island cuisine is what sets this style of cooking apart from standard Greek fare, giving meals a fresh take that keeps them interesting. Karpathos, the home of Kukla’s Kouzina, has its own unique style, and we’ll show you how to take common dishes and reinvent them into Karpathian versions with our simple substitutions.
 
Many think that everyday Greek cooking is made up of dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), moussaka, and pastitsio. These are classics for sure, but too time-consuming to make on a regular basis. During our time in Karpathos, we learned that the locals’ quick meals made from the island’s staples like fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, spices, and protein, prepared using certain methods, came out tasting Greek-island delicious. So we thought this would be a great way to bring our hometown flavor into YOUR kouzina, adding some spicy variety to your life while keeping it simple and fast. Recipes for each week will be posted right here on our blog with links to the episodes.

Copyright © 2021 Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos

Salads loaded with hearty pasta, protein-rich legumes, and fresh produce and herbs, help sustain you while fasting. Our focus is always to create Greek meals, especially those for fasting, that are flavorful, as well as quick and easy to make. The following recipe is so good you’ll want to serve it anytime!
 
The recipe below partners with the corresponding how-to episode on our new YouTube cooking series, Flippin’ Greek! ™, to show you how we do it in our kouzina. Join us!

During Lent and other fasting periods, eating is about balance and this main-dish salad doesn’t disappoint with orzo pasta, grilled zucchini, Northern beans, and fresh basil tossed with our iconic ladolemono (olive oil-lemon) dressing. When not fasting, toss in 1/2 cup diced kasseri cheese for some added Greek flavor.
 
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
COOKING TIME: about 25 minutes
SERVINGS: 4 to 6
 
1 cup orzo pasta
2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
 
LADOLEMONO DRESSING
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
 
1. Cook the orzo according to package directions, then drain and transfer to a bowl of cold water to prevent clumping and sticking.
 
2. Heat grill or grill pan. Slice the zucchini lengthwise and drizzle with 3 tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Grill the zucchini until just tender, about 2 minutes per side. Let cool, then chop into cubes; set aside.
 
3. Meanwhile, make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
 
4. Drain the orzo well and transfer to a large serving bowl. Toss in the zucchini, beans, and basil. Add the dressing and toss until combined well. (Can be made ahead. Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days.)
 
Recipe copyright © Kukla's Kouzina 
 
I hope you enjoy making our Greek Orzo-Bean Salad. Join us next week for another Lenten recipe—no meat, lots of flavor!
 
Sign up for our e-newsletter (if you haven’t already) and stay connected on social media for cooking tips and recipes, as well as for all Kukla's Kouzina updates and news.
 
Thanks for following us and we’ll see you here and on YouTube next Monday!
 
Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
 
Kelly

 
ABOUT Kukla’s Kouzina Flippin’ Greek! ™
Flippin’ Greek! ™ is our new cooking series on YouTube and the next exciting chapter in our kouzina. Every Monday we flip a familiar non-Greek recipe to Greek-island style using ingredients and cooking techniques found in Karpathos. Each episode runs 2 to 15 minutes, the perfect length for us to quickly show you how to recreate foods and beverages/cocktails right alongside us.

​The ingredients used in Greek-island cuisine is what sets this style of cooking apart from standard Greek fare, giving meals a fresh take that keeps them interesting. Karpathos, the home of Kukla’s Kouzina, has its own unique style, and we’ll show you how to take common dishes and reinvent them into Karpathian versions with our simple substitutions.
 
Many think that everyday Greek cooking is made up of dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), moussaka, and pastitsio. These are classics for sure, but too time-consuming to make on a regular basis. During our time in Karpathos, we learned that the locals’ quick meals made from the island’s staples like fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs, spices, and protein, prepared using certain methods, came out tasting Greek-island delicious. So we thought this would be a great way to bring our hometown flavor into YOUR kouzina, adding some spicy variety to your life while keeping it simple and fast. Recipes for each week will be posted right here on our blog with links to the episodes.

​Copyright © 2021 Kukla's Kouzina: A Gourmet Journey~Greek Island Style / Flippin’ Greek!™ / The Naked Truth About...Greek Cooking!    
 
Web design by Kelly Salonica Staikopoulos