Top 20 Greek Recipes for the Week September 15 - 21, 2008

The creamy combination of yogurt, cucumber, and garlic makes tzatziki a refreshing appetizer that can be eaten alone, with bread, or as an accompaniment to vegetables, meat dishes, and pita wraps. It is one of the dips for which Greece is most well-known. Making it for a large group? Try adding grated carrots to increase the quantity (1 carrot for each cup of yogurt used). They add a nice crunch and don't affect the taste.

This is the Greek recipe for moussaka with eggplant, probably the most well-known of all versions, and a favorite of Greeks and non-Greeks alike. A casserole dish, moussaka is made with layers of ground meat and vegetables, and topped with a rich cream sauce.

This dip is a delicious appetizer and a favorite with regional differences in this part of the world. The key to great hummus is to let the flavor of the chickpeas come through, rather than be overwhelmed by the lemon (it's easy to get too much lemon taste). It's quick to make, no cooking involved, and it's vegan- and vegetarian-friendly.

This thick version of bechamel comes from my neighbor, Yiorgia, and it turns out thick and rich every time. It's made with evaporated milk and contains cheese, and is just one variation of this popular sauce used with meats and vegetables. It isn't hard to make, and doesn't take long, but it has to be stirred the entire time.

The way professionals make gyro on an upright rotisserie is fabulous, but not the most practical for most of us cooking at home. This version uses the same meat (pork) and seasonings, but has been adapted to home cooking.

A favorite to serve with dips and spreads, and pita wraps (sandwiches) of all descriptions, pita bread is not difficult to make, and freezes well.

This recipe is for full fat sheep or cow's milk yogurt made the traditional way, without a yogurt maker. It's a very simple recipe with two ingredients.

Pastitsio is a classic Greek dish, with several variations. This creamy, cheesy dish is one of the all-time favorite Greek comfort foods. Tubular pasta (ziti, penne, macaroni), a meat sauce with a hint of cinnamon, cheese, and a thick cream sauce topping.

Learn how to make Greek coffee in easy steps with photos. Greek coffee is brewed thick and the grounds are poured into the cup along with the coffee. These steps will help you make the perfect cup to serve with pastries and desserts, or simply with a glass of cold water.

One of the most famous phyllo pastries, galaktoboureko is a traditional Greek sweet, soaked in a light lemony syrup after baking. A true special occasion dish.