Garlic, onion and lemon – the basis of Greek cuisine

The Foundation of Greek Cuisine

In Greece, almost every dish begins with three simple ingredients: garlic, onion, and lemon. They are the unsung heroes of Greek cuisine—unassuming, yet indispensable. Without them, there would be no authentic tzatziki, no gyros, and no grilled fish. These three ingredients lend freshness, depth, and aroma to every dish—and have been a part of the Mediterranean diet for centuries.

1. Garlic – The Heart of Greek Cuisine

Garlic (σκόρδο) is arguably the most characteristic ingredient of Greece. Its intense aroma can be found in dips, meat dishes, fish sauces, stir-fries, and even salads. Hardly a taverna cooks without it.

Tradition & Uses

In Greece, garlic is usually used fresh, finely chopped or crushed with a little salt. It is especially popular in:

Tzatziki – yogurt with cucumber and garlic
Skordalia – a rich potato and garlic dip
Fish and seafood dishes
Meze appetizers
Marinades for souvlaki

Many Greeks roast whole garlic cloves in the oven until they become sweet – ideal with bread and olive oil. Raw garlic is rarely eaten on its own, but always combined with lemon, oil, or yogurt to balance its pungency.

Health Benefits

Garlic has been considered a medicinal plant since ancient times. It has antibacterial properties, strengthens the immune system, and helps lower high blood pressure. No wonder Greeks use it almost daily – in small amounts, but regularly.

2. Onion – the foundation of many dishes

The onion (κρεμμύδι) is also an integral part of Greek cuisine. Whether raw, fried, or braised, it gives dishes a sweet depth and is found in countless recipes.

Onions in Traditional Cuisine

Raw in Choriatiki (Greek salad)
Braised in tomato sauces for moussaka
In soups, lentil dishes, and stews
As a base for marinades and fillings

In Greece, red onions are most commonly used – they are milder and sweeter than the yellow variety. Especially on Crete and Santorini, you often see them raw in salads or as a side dish to grilled meat.

Caramelized Onions

A popular tip from many tavernas: slowly fry onions in olive oil until golden brown. This sweet and savory note enhances both meat dishes and vegetable stir-fries.

3. Lemon – Freshness and Balance

The lemon (λεμόνι) is the counterpoint to oil and garlic. Its juice adds freshness and acidity – and transforms simple ingredients into a harmonious dish. Greeks use lemon in countless combinations: on fish, meat, vegetables, soups, and even desserts.

Typical Uses

As a marinade for fish and meat
In lemon sauces such as avgolemono (egg and lemon sauce)
Over grilled souvlaki or vegetables
In salad dressings with olive oil
As a dessert ingredient (e.g., in baklava)

Lemon juice is often squeezed directly over the food at the table—a typical sight in any taverna. Many restaurants automatically serve lemon wedges, especially with fish dishes and meze.

4. The Interplay – The Holy Trinity of Cuisine

Garlic, onion, and lemon are the “trinity” of Greek cuisine. They harmonize perfectly:

Onion adds sweetness
Garlic provides depth
Lemon adds freshness

Together, they form the basis of almost every Greek sauce, marinade, or soup. Especially when combined with good olive oil, they create the typical Mediterranean flavor.

5. Regional Differences

Crete: strong garlic flavor, lots of lemon in dressings

Peloponnese: onions and lemons in braised dishes

Santorini: mild red onions and lemons with capers

Northern Greece: more heavily spiced dishes, garlic less often used raw

6. Typical dishes with garlic, onion and lemon

Dish	Main Ingredient	Description
Tzatziki	Garlic	yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic
Souvlaki	Lemon	marinated meat with lemon and herbs
Skordalia	Garlic	potato mash with oil and lemon
Fasolada	Onion	bean soup with onion and tomato
Avgolemono-Suppe	Lemon	chicken broth with egg and lemon juice

7. Tips for Home Cooking

Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder – it’s milder and more aromatic.
Always squeeze lemon juice fresh, never from a bottle.
Sauté onions slowly – this brings out sweetness instead of spiciness.

Combine garlic with yogurt or oil to reduce bitterness.

With these three ingredients, you can try many Greek recipes yourself – from simple dips to complex stews.

8. Health & Mediterranean Diet

All three ingredients are typical components of the Mediterranean diet, which is considered one of the healthiest diets in the world.

They provide antioxidants, vitamin C, minerals, and healthy plant compounds – and support the heart, circulatory system, and immune system.

9. Culinary Tours & Cooking Classes

Those who want to learn more about Greek cuisine can participate in food tours or cooking classes – often focusing on local ingredients and traditional techniques.

10. Conclusion: Simple, Aromatic, Indispensable

Garlic, onion, and lemon are the heart and soul of Greek cuisine. They bring simple ingredients to life, lending depth and freshness – and are emblematic of what makes Greek cuisine so special: naturalness, aroma, and enjoyment.