August 13, 2024

Greek Mezze Trio

For any mezze platter or summer gathering, we love to include these three Mediterranean staples: tangy tirokafteri, creamy garlic hummus, and a refreshing lemon-dill yogurt dip. Tirokafteri, with its blend of feta and roasted red peppers, adds a sweet & savory kick, while the smooth hummus offers a nutty flavor that's perfect for dipping. The lemon-dill yogurt dip provides a zesty and herby contrast, tying the whole platter together. Any and all of these can be eaten with a spoon, but we prefer to spread them on toasted bread, pita chips, and crudité.

DRINK WITH: Vinalia x Bosinakis Moschofilero Rosé

Tirokafteri

Tirokafteri, also known as htipiti, is a bold and flavorful mezze hailing from northern Greece. The sheep’s milk cheese lends a rich depth and tanginess, while roasted peppers contribute a sweet, slightly smoky quality. While boasting multiple layers of flavor, this spicy feta dip can be whipped up in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect summer staple.

INGREDIENTS

10 ounce block Greek feta cheese, broken into chunks, plus more for garnish
1 red chili pepper w/ seeds, roughly chopped
2 roasted red peppers, torn (homemade or one 12-ounce jar fire-roasted red peppers, drained)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tbsp good olive oil
Pita chips and crudité (for serving)

DIRECTIONS

Add the feta crumbles, chili pepper, roasted bell peppers, garlic, and red wine vinegar to the bowl of a large food processor with the blade attachment. Close the lid and blend until smooth (or desired consistency). With the speed on low, drizzle in the olive oil. Refrigerate for at least four hours, but preferably overnight. Check and adjust the seasonings to your preference just before serving. Top with more crumbled feta.

Garlic Hummus

Hummus, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, has gained popularity worldwide in recent years. While you can find it in just about every grocery store, this homemade version is so much richer and fresher in flavor. Made primarily from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this delicious dip is not only versatile but also packed with nutrients. Perfect enjoyed as a snack with pita chips, it's also delicious as a spread on sandwiches, or a healthy addition to a mezze platter.

INGREDIENTS

2 14-ounce cans of chickpeas, drained and skins removed
5-6 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup tahini
2/3 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tsp ground cumin
Ice water
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper
2 tbsp good olive oil
Fresh lime zest, toasted pine nuts (for garnish)
Pita chips and crudité (for serving)

DIRECTIONS

In the bowl of a food processor with the blade attached, combine the garlic, tahini, lemon juice, cumin, 2 tsp salt and 1 tsp ground pepper. Process until smooth. Add the chickpeas all at once and pulse a few times. With the motor running, slowly add ice water, up to 1/3 cup, to achieve a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning. Drizzle with olive oil and top with freshly grated lime zest and toasted pine nuts just before serving.

Lemon-Dill Yogurt Dip

If you’re looking for a simple, delicious and easy dip recipe, this one is for you. This versatile condiment combines creamy yogurt with bright lemon and fragrant dill, creating a delightful accompaniment to an array of dishes. Whether served alongside grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or simply enjoyed with pita bread, this dip enhances every bite with its bright, fresh taste and cool, smooth texture.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt
1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, grated
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp good olive oil
2 tsp ground cumin
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper
Cayenne and dill fronds (for garnish)
Pita chips and crudité (for serving)

DIRECTIONS

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl, seasoning with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper. Refrigerate for at least four hours, but preferably overnight. Check and adjust the seasonings to your preference just before serving. Top with cayenne, fresh dill, and move olive oil.

SERVE WITH...

Vintage: 2022

Grape Variety: 100% Moschofilero (moss-koh-fee-luh-row)

Region: Arkadia, Greece

Drink If You Like: Anything pink, Muscat, Vermentino

Alcohol: 14%

A rare pink expression of Moschofilero, this wine combines the seductive jasmine and white rose floral aromatics signature of the grape variety with the crushed, cold strawberry and raspberry flavors enjoyed of dry rosé. Complex and flamboyantly flavorful, the wine delivers that snappy, salty finish that makes it the perfect accompaniment to a hot summer day.