15 Halvas Greek Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!

Published on: Mar 31, 2024

Halvas is a traditional Greek dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. This sweet and nutty treat is a staple in Greek cuisine and is often served at special occasions and celebrations. While there are many variations of halvas, the most popular recipe is made with semolina, butter, sugar, and almonds. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this delicious Greek dessert and share a step-by-step recipe for you to try at home.

Jump to Recipe

1 of 20

Greek Potatoes

Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Water, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Dried Oregano

Greek Potatoes (super easy, so much flavor!) - Texanerin Baking

Greek Lemon Garlic Roasted Potatoes – 12 Tomatoes

Greek Roasted Lemon Potatoes (lemonates patates) | Olive & Mango

The Greek cuisine is known for its delicious and flavorful dishes, and Greek potatoes are no exception. These potatoes are usually baked with olive oil, lemon, and herbs, giving them a unique and tangy taste. They are a perfect side dish for your beer can chicken, adding a Greek twist to your meal.

2 of 20

Greek Chicken

Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Greek Seasoning

Best Ever Greek Chicken Marinade - Carlsbad Cravings

Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet - PureWow

One of the most popular dishes in Greek cuisine is Greek chicken. This dish is usually made with tender chicken marinated in a blend of herbs, lemon, and olive oil. It is then grilled or baked to perfection, resulting in juicy and flavorful chicken. It pairs perfectly with a side of Greek potatoes and a fresh Greek salad.

3 of 20

Greek Salad Dressing & Greek Salad

Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemon

My Favorite Greek Salad Dressing Recipe - Meredith Rines

Best Greek Salad Dressing & Greek Salad - Dishing Delish

Best Greek Salad {with Avocado!} - Cooking Classy

A Greek salad is a classic dish that is simple yet full of flavor. It is made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a Greek salad dressing. This dressing is made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and a blend of herbs and spices. It adds a tangy and refreshing taste to the salad, making it a perfect side dish for your beer can chicken.

4 of 20

Greek Moussaka

Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Butter, Chopped Onion, Minced Garlic, Ground

Traditional Moussaka recipe with eggplants (aubergines) and potatoes ...

Easy Moussaka Recipe (Ultimate Guide!) - Scrummy Lane

Vegan Moussaka with Cashew Béchamel - Bianca Zapatka | Recipes

Greek Moussaka is a hearty and comforting dish that is a staple in Greek cuisine. It is made with layers of eggplant, ground beef, and a creamy bechamel sauce. The flavors of the beef and eggplant are enhanced with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and oregano. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your dinner guests.

5 of 20

GREEK BEEF STIFADO

Main Ingredients: Chopped Tomatoes, Cinnamon Sticks, Bay Leaves, Dried

Beef Stifado (Greek Beef Stew) - Souvlaki For The Soul

Stifado - Greek Red Wine Beef Stew - The Greek Foodie

Greek beef stew with pearl onions (Stifado) Turkish Recipes, Greek ...

Slimming World Beef Stifado | TamingTwins.com | Healthy dinner recipes ...

Greek Beef Stifado is a delicious and hearty stew that is perfect for colder days. It is made with tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, and flavored with a blend of herbs and spices. This dish is usually served with a side of rice or pasta, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

6 of 20

Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes – Both Homers Would...

Main Ingredients: Chicken, Bone, Russet Potatoes, Kosher Salt, Freshly

Greek Lemon Chicken | Recipe | Greek lemon chicken, Greek chicken and ...

Greek Lemon Potatoes | RecipeTin Eats

Cook This: Greek Lemon Chicken & Potatoes - The Wordy Girl

Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes Recipe - Allrecipes.com

This dish is a homerun for both Homer Simpson and the Greek poet Homer. Greek lemon chicken and potatoes is a classic Greek dish that is loved by many. The chicken is marinated in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs, while the potatoes are roasted to perfection. The result is a flavorful and juicy chicken with crispy and tangy potatoes. It's a must-try for any beer can chicken lover.

7 of 20

Greek Pasta Salad

Main Ingredients: Barilla Rotini, English Cucumber, Grape Tomatoes, Red

Jo and Sue: Greek Pasta Salad With Creamy Feta Dressing

Greek Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe | Barilla

Greek Pasta Salad | The Kiwi Country Girl

If you're looking for a lighter and more refreshing side dish for your beer can chicken, then you have to try Greek pasta salad. It's made with pasta, fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a tangy Greek dressing. It's a perfect balance of flavors, and it's also a great way to use up any leftover chicken.

8 of 20

Greek Orzo Salad

Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Fresh Lemon Juice, Garlic, Salt, Freshly

Orzo is a type of pasta that is shaped like rice, and it's a staple in Greek cuisine. Greek orzo salad is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer day. It's made with cooked orzo, fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy Greek dressing. It's a perfect side dish for your beer can chicken or any other grilled meats.

9 of 20

Greek Turkey Burgers

Main Ingredients: Ground Turkey, Crumbled Feta Cheese, Kalamata Olives

Grilled Greek Turkey Burger | Virtually Homemade: Grilled Greek Turkey ...

Whole30 Greek Turkey Burgers With Mint Avocado Sauce - Paleo Gluten ...

Greek Turkey Burgers - Hungry Healthy Happy

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional burgers, then you have to try Greek turkey burgers. They are made with lean ground turkey and flavored with a blend of herbs and spices, including oregano and garlic. They are perfect for grilling and are a delicious and lighter option for your beer can chicken meal.

10 of 20

Greek Quesadillas

Main Ingredients: Flour Tortillas, Frozen Chopped Spinach, Sun Dried

Ever tried Greek-Mex? If you've ever tried Greek 'spanakopita' or ...

Greek Quesadillas - Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks

Quesadillas may not be a traditional Greek dish, but when you add a Greek twist, they become something special. Greek quesadillas are made with a blend of feta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, along with spinach and tomatoes. They are a delicious and easy way to use up any leftover chicken and are a great appetizer for your beer can chicken feast.

11 of 20

One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice

Main Ingredients: Dried Oregano, Dried Minced Onion, Garlic, Lemon

One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken Rice with Roast Garlic | Think food

One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken Rice with Roast Garlic - Closet Cooking

One Pot Greek Chicken and Rice - Dinner, then Dessert

One-pot Greek Oven–Roasted Chicken and Potatoes - Supergolden Bakes

This one-pan dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Greek lemon chicken and rice is made with tender pieces of chicken and rice, flavored with a blend of herbs and spices, and topped with tangy lemon. It's all cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It's a quick and easy meal that is full of flavor and perfect for any night of the week.

12 of 20

Zesty Greek chicken

Main Ingredients: Chicken Legs, Chicken Stock, Lemon, Olive Oil, Onion

Slow Cooker Greek Chicken in 2021 | Crockpot recipes slow cooker, Easy ...

Savory Sweet and Satisfying: Zesty Crisp Chicken

Zesty Greek Quinoa Salad - it's gluten-free!

Kotopita Parcels: Greek Chicken & Phyllo Pockets | Recipe | Greek ...

If you like your chicken with a bit of a kick, then you have to try zesty Greek chicken. It's made with tender chicken marinated in a blend of lemon, garlic, and spices, including cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. It's a perfect dish for those who like a little spice in their meals and pairs well with a side of Greek potatoes or rice.

13 of 20

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Greek Yogurt, Fresh Lemon Juice, Extra

Easy Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki | aheadofthyme.com - Ahead of Thyme

Greek Chicken Gyros - Damn Delicious

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki & Pickled Vegetables - Yes to Yolks

Gyros are a popular street food in Greece and are made with thin slices of meat, usually pork or chicken, wrapped in a pita with fresh vegetables and a tangy tzatziki sauce. You can easily make your own at home with Greek chicken gyros. The chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, giving it a delicious and flavorful taste. Serve it with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.

14 of 20

Crispiest Greek Lemon Potatoes (Patates Lemonates)

Main Ingredients: Large Potatoes, Garlic, Olive Oil, Water, Dried

Crispiest Greek Lemon Potatoes Recipe (Patates Lemonates) | Recipe Cart

Greek Potatoes | Recipe | Greek potatoes, Recipes, Cooking recipes

If you're a fan of crispy potatoes, then you have to try crispiest Greek lemon potatoes. They are made with a simple blend of lemon, olive oil, and herbs, and they are usually roasted until they are golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are a perfect side dish for your beer can chicken and add a tangy and flavorful element to your meal.

15 of 20

Greek Chicken Rice Bowl

Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fresh Lemon Juice, Red Wine

Grilled Greek Chicken Rice Bowls - With Cucumber Salad And Tzatziki

Greek Chicken Bowls (Meal Prep Easy) - Easy Peasy Meals

Quinoa Bowls (with Grilled Greek Chicken & Tzatziki!) - Cooking Classy

Rice bowls are a popular dish in many cultures, and the Greek version is no exception. Greek chicken rice bowl is made with tender chicken, rice, and a variety of fresh vegetables, all topped with a tangy tzatziki sauce. It's a healthy and delicious meal that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

16 of 20

Greek Salad Dressing

Main Ingredients: Red Wine Vinegar, Lemon Juice, Dijon Mustard, Honey

Greek Salad Dressing Recipe - Love and Lemons

The BEST Greek Salad with Fresh Herb Greek Dressing - The Café Sucre Farine

Greek Salad Dressing (5 Ingredients) - Little Broken

A good salad dressing can make all the difference in a dish, and Greek salad dressing is no exception. It's a simple yet flavorful dressing that is made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and a blend of herbs and spices. It's perfect for any salad, but it pairs particularly well with a Greek salad or a simple green salad.

17 of 20

Greek Meatballs

Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Lamb, Egg, Lemon, Dried Oregano

Easy Greek meatballs with feta cheese - Simply Delicious

Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) | RecipeTin Eats

Greek meatballs, also known as keftedes, are a popular dish in Greece, and for a good reason. They are made with a blend of ground beef and pork, flavored with a variety of herbs and spices, including mint, oregano, and garlic. They are usually served as an appetizer or as part of a meze platter, but they can also be served as a main dish with a side of Greek potatoes or rice.

18 of 20

Greek Salad with Homemade Greek Salad Dressing

Main Ingredients: Purple Onion, Cold Water, White Vinegar, Tomatoes

How To Make Classic Greek Vinaigrette | Recipe | Greek vinaigrette ...

Easy Homemade Greek Salad Dressing- Amee's Savory Dish

Best Homemade Greek Salad Dressing Recipe - S&SM

If you want to take your Greek salad to the next level, then you have to make your own Greek salad dressing. This dressing is made with simple ingredients, including olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of herbs and spices. It adds a tangy and refreshing taste to the salad, making it a perfect side dish for your beer can chicken.

19 of 20

Authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce

Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Greek Yogurt, Garlic Cloves, Olive

Tzatziki Sauce Recipe - Cooking Classy

Authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce Recipe {How To Make Tzatziki} | Say Grace

Authentic Greek Tzatziki Greek Appetizers, Appetizer Snacks, Taziki ...

Tzatziki sauce is a staple in Greek cuisine and is used as a condiment for many dishes. It's a creamy and tangy sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It's a perfect accompaniment for gyros, kebabs, or even as a dip for pita bread. You can easily make your own authentic Greek tzatziki sauce at home and add a flavorful and refreshing element to your beer can chicken meal.

20 of 20

Greek Marinated Chicken

Main Ingredients: Plain Greek Yogurt, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic

Greek Marinated Chicken with Tzatziki Sauc | Recipe in 2020 | Greek ...

Garlicky Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken - Beautiful Eats & Things

Greek Marinated Chicken | Mediterranean recipes, Greek marinated ...

If you want to add a Greek twist to your beer can chicken, then you have to try Greek marinated chicken. It's made with a blend of olive oil, lemon, and herbs, and it adds a delicious and tangy flavor to the chicken. You can marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors fully develop. Serve it with a side of Greek potatoes and a fresh Greek salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

The Origins of Halvas

The Influence of Turkish and Middle Eastern Cuisine

The word "halvas" comes from the Arabic word "halwa" which means "sweet." It is believed that the recipe for halvas was brought to Greece by the Ottoman Turks during their occupation of the country in the 15th century. However, the origins of this dessert can be traced back to ancient Greece, where a similar dish called "halub" was made with honey and sesame seeds.

A Popular Dessert in Greek Culture

Over the years, halvas has become an integral part of Greek culture and is often served at special occasions such as weddings, baptisms, and religious holidays. It is also a popular treat during Lent, as it does not contain any animal products and is therefore suitable for fasting.

The Ingredients

Semolina

The main ingredient in halvas is semolina, a coarse flour made from durum wheat. This gives the dessert its signature grainy texture and nutty flavor.

Butter

Butter is used to give halvas its richness and creaminess. In traditional recipes, clarified butter, also known as ghee, is used for a more authentic taste.

Sugar

White sugar is typically used in halvas, but some variations may call for other sweeteners such as honey or agave syrup. The amount of sugar used can also be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences.

Almonds

Almonds are a staple in Greek cuisine and are commonly used in desserts. They provide a satisfying crunch and add a nutty flavor to the halvas.

The Recipe

Featured keywords: halvas, Greek, recipe

Ingredients:

- 1 cup semolina - 1 cup sugar - 1 cup water - 1/2 cup butter - 1/2 cup chopped almonds - 1 tsp vanilla extract - 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the semolina and stir constantly until it turns golden brown.
In a separate saucepan, combine the sugar and water and bring to a boil until the sugar dissolves.
Slowly pour the sugar mixture into the semolina, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Add the chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon and continue to stir until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a greased dish.
Smooth out the top and sprinkle with additional almonds and cinnamon if desired.
Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoying Halvas

Featured keyword: halvas Halvas can be served warm or cold, and is often accompanied by a cup of Greek coffee or a glass of sweet wine. It can also be topped with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. Enjoy this delicious Greek dessert as a special treat or as a comforting snack any time of the year.