Crete is famous for its gastronomic delights, providing something for everyone – and, much of it is not only delicious but nutritious too. Cretan fare is the basis of the Mediterranean diet, characterized by the quality and freshness of ingredients, with dishes often farm-to-table, something that started here long before it became a popular trend also.
There are incredible fruits like pomegranates providing a unique healthy sweet, and lots of citrus. In fact, you’ll often find oranges on the table, a fruit that’s existed in every Cretan home for centuries. The local Cretan yogurt is rich and creamy, made with sheep’s milk instead of cow’s milk. Topped with honey, nuts, and fruit, it’s one of the tastiest, healthiest and most convenient breakfasts you can have.
Meals are often served family-style, making it easier for those with little ones with picky tastes. Some dishes that they might grow to love include saganaki (fried cheese), calamari (fried squid) and dolmadhes (flavored rice wrapped in vine leaves). Gamopilafo, combines meat and rice, is often a hit with the kids too. The sweet pastry called kalitsounia, baked or fried using mizithra cheese, sugar, and cinnamon, is sure to be a favorite among all.