Easter in Greece: A Feast of Tradition and Flavor

Easter is the most significant celebration in Greece, marked by deeply rooted traditions and a rich tapestry of festive foods that bring families and communities together. The table is filled with symbolic dishes, seasonal ingredients, and beloved recipes passed down through generations.

Tsoureki 

This sweet, braided bread flavored with mahlepi and orange zest is a staple of the Easter feast. Often adorned with a red-dyed egg, Tsoureki symbolizes rebirth and is shared with family and friends after the Resurrection.

Red-Dyed Eggs 

Symbolizing the blood of Christ and new life, red-dyed eggs are a central part of Greek Easter traditions. Families crack them together during the festive meal in a game of “tsougrisma,” wishing each other health and prosperity.

Magiritsa Soup

A unique Easter dish, Magiritsa is traditionally served after the midnight Resurrection service. Made with lamb offal, lettuce, dill, and a velvety egg-lemon (avgolemono) sauce, this soup is both comforting and symbolic, marking the end of the Lenten fast.

Roasted Lamb or Goat 

The highlight of Easter Sunday, lamb or goat is roasted on a spit, seasoned with garlic, lemon, and oregano. This communal event often becomes a celebration of music, dance, and joy.

Kokoretsi

A traditional delicacy made with lamb or goat offal, seasoned with herbs, and wrapped in intestines before being roasted. It’s a flavorful and cherished part of the Easter feast.

Side Dishes and Additions

Cheese Pies

Homemade cheese pies, often using flaky phyllo dough and tangy feta cheese, are a popular Easter side dish.

Salads with Seasonal Ingredients

Fresh greens, dill, scallions, and radishes often feature in Easter salads, paired with ingredients like pomegranate or nuts for added texture.

Tzatziki

Of  course, there is not a festive meal goes without tzatziki. You already know this Greek yoghurt based  creamy sauce, and I guess you already love it.

Easter Cookies

Crunchy, golden-brown butter cookies with a hint of orange or vanilla, shaped into twists or braids. These cookies are baked in abundance and shared with visitors throughout the Easter season.

Drinks and Desserts

Wines and Spirits

Local red and white wines, ouzo, or tsipouro complement the Easter feast.

Baklava and Galaktoboureko

Although not exclusive to Easter, these syrup-drenched phyllo desserts are often part of the festive table.

Insider Tips for Greek Easter Feasting

• Don’t miss the Resurrection Service: Join locals at the midnight church service on Holy Saturday, followed by the breaking of the Lenten fast with Magiritsa.
• Join a Spit-Roasting Gathering: Many villages and towns roast lamb or goat outdoors, creating a communal celebration.
• Try Local Variations: Regional specialties, like lamb stuffed with greens in Crete or Easter bread from Corfu, offer unique takes on the holiday feast.

Greek Easter is a celebration of faith, family, and food. With its rich traditions and vibrant flavors, it’s an unforgettable experience that connects you to the heart of Greek culture.

Plan your visit to Greece during Easter and savor the authentic tastes of this sacred and festive season!