When I first started exploring plant-based Greek food, I was amazed at how naturally vegan-friendly many traditional dishes already are.
From hearty bean stews to refreshing salads, Greek cuisine is filled with wholesome flavours that celebrate fresh vegetables, legumes, and olive oil.
One of my favourites is Fasolada, a simple yet nourishing white bean soup that has been called the national dish of Greece.
Another go-to is Revithia—a comforting chickpea stew often slow-cooked until it melts in your mouth.
And of course, no Greek table is complete without a vibrant Horiatiki (Greek village salad) loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and capers.
If you’re curious about plant-based Mediterranean eating, I highly recommend checking out The Mediterranean Dish for authentic recipe inspiration.
For a deep dive into vegan Greek food traditions, Olive Tomato is an excellent resource that blends history with delicious recipes.
For more plant-based Mediterranean inspiration, check out my posts on Vegan Mediterranean Diet Benefits and Top Plant-Based Greek Appetizers.
Exploring these dishes has shown me that eating plant-based food doesn’t mean missing out—it means discovering new ways to enjoy authentic flavours while nourishing your body. Trust me, once you try these recipes, you’ll fall in love with Greek cuisine all over again.
Table of Contents
- Top 10 Plant-Based Greek Recipes
- Fasolada – White Bean Soup
- Revithia – Chickpea Stew
- Horiatiki – Greek Village Salad
- Briam – Roasted Vegetables
- Dolmades – Stuffed Grape Leaves
- Gigantes Plaki – Giant Beans in Tomato Sauce
- Spanakorizo – Spinach and Rice
- Fava Santorini – Yellow Split Pea Purée
- Yemista – Stuffed Vegetables
- Ladera – Olive Oil Dishes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Fasolada – White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is made with tender white beans, tomatoes, carrots, and a hint of olive oil. It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for chilly evenings.
People consider Fasolada as the national dish of Greece, and it’s naturally plant-based.
Revithia – Chickpea Stew
Revithia is a slow-cooked chickpea stew with onions, olive oil, and a touch of lemon. It’s creamy without any dairy and delivers a rich, comforting flavour that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Horiatiki – Greek Village Salad
Horiatiki is a fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, onions, and capers. By skipping the feta, it’s completely plant-based, and its bright flavours make it a perfect side or light lunch.
Briam – Roasted Vegetables
Briam layers zucchini, potatoes, eggplant, and tomatoes, baked in olive oil and herbs. Every bite bursts with Mediterranean flavor, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.
Dolmades – Stuffed Grape Leaves
Dolmades are grape leaves stuffed with rice, fresh herbs, and sometimes lentils. They’re tangy, savoury, and perfect as an appetiser or part of a mezze platter.
Gigantes Plaki – Giant Beans in Tomato Sauce
This dish features giant butter beans baked in a rich tomato sauce with herbs and olive oil. It’s hearty, protein-packed, and a true comfort food for any occasion.
Spanakorizo – Spinach and Rice
Spanakorizo combines spinach, rice, onions, and a squeeze of lemon for a light yet nourishing meal. It’s perfect for lunch or a side dish and showcases the simplicity of Greek plant-based cooking.
Fava Santorini – Yellow Split Pea Purée
Fava is a smooth, creamy purée made from yellow split peas, onions, and olive oil. Traditionally served as a dip, it’s versatile and packed with protein and flavour.
Yemista – Stuffed Vegetables
Yemista are vegetables, such as tomatoes and peppers, stuffed with rice, herbs, and pine nuts. Baked to perfection, they’re a colourful, satisfying, and wholesome main course.
Ladera – Olive Oil Dishes
Ladera is a category of dishes where vegetables like green beans or okra are cooked gently in olive oil and tomato sauce. These meals are simple, nourishing, and highlight the Mediterranean love of olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Greek cuisine naturally plant-based?
Yes! Traditional Greek cuisine features many naturally vegan dishes, including bean soups, vegetable stews, and salads. Olive oil, legumes, grains, and fresh vegetables are staples in Mediterranean cooking.
What are some easy plant-based Greek dishes to start with?
For beginners, start with Fasolada (white bean soup), Horiatiki (Greek village salad), and Briam (roasted vegetables). These dishes are simple, flavorful, and showcase authentic Greek flavours.
Can I find plant-based Greek food outside Greece?
Yes! Many Mediterranean restaurants worldwide offer plant-based Greek dishes. You can also recreate authentic recipes at home using locally available vegetables, beans, and olive oil.
How do I make Greek recipes vegan-friendly?
Most Greek recipes are naturally plant-based. For dishes that include cheese or yoghurt, substitute with vegan feta or plant-based yoghurt. Herbs, olive oil, and lemon keep the authentic flavour.
Are plant-based Greek meals healthy?
Yes! Greek plant-based meals are nutrient-rich, packed with fibre, protein from legumes, antioxidants from vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil. They promote heart health, digestion, and overall wellness.
Where can I find authentic plant-based Greek recipes online?
Check out The Mediterranean Dish for authentic recipes, and Olive Tomato for a deep dive into vegan Greek cooking with traditional flavours and tips.
Conclusion
Exploring plant-based Greek food has genuinely been a culinary adventure for me.
From hearty soups like Fasolada to fresh, vibrant salads like Horiatiki, Greek cuisine offers endless ways to enjoy wholesome, plant-powered meals without sacrificing flavour.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about Mediterranean eating, these top 10 recipes are a perfect place to start.
By embracing plant-based Greek dishes, you’re not only discovering rich flavours but also nourishing your body with healthy, nutrient-dense meals. So grab some olive oil, fresh herbs, and your favourite vegetables, and start cooking! Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you.
