Unlock Mediterranean Magic: 10 Delicious Recipes Featuring Greek Seasoning Blend

Greek seasoning blend – a vibrant mix of dried herbs and spices – is your secret weapon for adding a taste of the Mediterranean to any dish. It’s incredibly versatile and can transform simple ingredients into flavor-packed meals. This article will explore ten delicious recipes that showcase the power of Greek seasoning, providing detailed instructions and tips to help you create culinary masterpieces in your own kitchen.

## What is Greek Seasoning Blend?

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s understand what goes into a typical Greek seasoning blend. While variations exist, the core ingredients usually include:

* **Dried Oregano:** The backbone of the blend, providing a distinct earthy and slightly bitter flavor.
* **Dried Basil:** Adds a sweet and aromatic note that complements the oregano.
* **Dried Thyme:** Contributes a subtle earthy and minty flavor.
* **Dried Rosemary:** Offers a piney and fragrant aroma.
* **Dried Dill:** Provides a fresh, grassy, and slightly tangy flavor.
* **Garlic Powder:** Adds a pungent and savory depth.
* **Onion Powder:** Enhances the savory flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
* **Salt:** Balances the flavors and enhances the other spices.
* **Black Pepper:** Provides a touch of heat and complexity.
* **Sometimes:** Marjoram, mint, cinnamon (in small amounts). Some blends also include dried lemon peel for a citrusy kick.

You can easily find pre-made Greek seasoning blends in most supermarkets. However, making your own allows you to customize the blend to your preferences. You can adjust the ratios of the herbs and spices to create a flavor profile that suits your taste. A basic homemade recipe is included below.

### Homemade Greek Seasoning Blend Recipe:

* 2 tablespoons dried oregano
* 2 tablespoons dried basil
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme
* 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
* 1 tablespoon dried dill
* 2 tablespoons garlic powder
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 1 teaspoon black pepper

**Instructions:**

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Mix well until evenly distributed.
3. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

## 10 Delicious Recipes Featuring Greek Seasoning Blend

Now, let’s get cooking! Here are ten recipes that beautifully highlight the flavors of Greek seasoning:

### 1. Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

This classic Greek dish is bursting with flavor and is surprisingly easy to make.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1.5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning blend
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, potatoes, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, Greek seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Pour chicken broth over the chicken and potatoes.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
6. Optional: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the chicken and potatoes.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon juice and Greek seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
* Add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking sheet.
* Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for a richer flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
* Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad.

### 2. Greek Salad (Horiatiki)

A quintessential Greek salad, known as Horiatiki (meaning “village salad”), is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for summer.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1 red onion, thinly sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled or in a block
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Greek seasoning blend
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Dried oregano for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Greek seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with feta cheese.
5. Garnish with dried oregano, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use the freshest possible ingredients for the best flavor.
* Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount of feta cheese.
* Authentic Greek salad doesn’t typically include lettuce.
* For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt.

### 3. Greek Yogurt Dip (Tzatziki)

Tzatziki is a creamy and refreshing yogurt dip that is perfect for serving with grilled meats, vegetables, or pita bread.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
* 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon Greek seasoning blend
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, Greek seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture.
* Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
* Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
* Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or grilled meats.

### 4. Greek Quinoa Salad

A healthy and flavorful salad perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package directions
* 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
* 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon Greek seasoning blend
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Greek seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
* Substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese.
* Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint.

### 5. Greek Baked Feta (Feta Psiti)

A simple yet incredibly delicious appetizer.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 ounces block of feta cheese
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning blend
* 1/4 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
* 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
* Pita bread or crusty bread, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the feta cheese in a small oven-safe dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Greek seasoning blend.
4. Top with cherry tomatoes, olives, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the feta is softened and slightly melted.
6. Serve immediately with pita bread or crusty bread for dipping.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use a good quality feta cheese for the best flavor.
* Add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
* Include roasted red peppers for added flavor and color.
* Serve with a sprinkle of fresh oregano.

### 6. Greek Burgers

Give your burgers a Mediterranean twist with Greek seasoning and toppings.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound ground beef or lamb
* 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning blend
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 4 burger buns
* Tzatziki sauce
* Lettuce
* Tomato slices

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef or lamb, Greek seasoning blend, feta cheese, and red onion.
2. Gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form the mixture into four patties.
4. Grill or pan-fry the burgers to your desired doneness.
5. Serve on burger buns with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, and tomato slices.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano to the burger mixture.
* Use ground lamb for a more authentic Greek flavor.
* Top with Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, or spinach.
* Serve with a side of Greek salad.

### 7. Greek Roasted Vegetables

A simple and healthy side dish that’s packed with flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 1 red onion, chopped
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning blend
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Greek seasoning blend, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
7. Serve warm.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add other vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, or broccoli.
* Use a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
* Serve with grilled chicken or fish.
* Sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.

### 8. Greek Chicken Skewers (Souvlaki)

A classic Greek street food that’s perfect for grilling.

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning blend
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
* Optional: Pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and chopped vegetables for serving

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, Greek seasoning blend, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, in the refrigerator.
3. Thread the chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
4. Grill the skewers over medium heat for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and chopped vegetables.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skewers.
* Use a marinade with Greek yogurt for extra tenderness.
* Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
* Make lamb or pork souvlaki instead of chicken.

### 9. Greek Pasta Salad

A light and refreshing pasta salad perfect for a picnic or potluck.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
* 1 cup chopped cucumber
* 1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
* 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning blend
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Greek seasoning blend, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
* Substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese.
* Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint.

### 10. Greek Lemon Rice

A simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats and vegetables.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 cup long-grain rice
* 2 cups chicken broth
* 1 lemon, juiced and zested
* 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning blend
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
3. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning blend, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
6. Serve warm.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
* Add a bay leaf for extra flavor.
* Stir in some chopped fresh dill before serving.
* Squeeze a bit of extra lemon juice over the rice before serving.

## Conclusion

Greek seasoning blend is a versatile ingredient that can add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to a wide variety of dishes. From classic Greek salads and lemon chicken to innovative burgers and pasta salads, the possibilities are endless. By incorporating these ten recipes into your cooking repertoire, you can unlock the magic of Greek cuisine and impress your family and friends with delicious and flavorful meals. Experiment with different variations and adjust the seasoning to your liking to create your own unique Greek-inspired creations. Enjoy!