When it comes to family meals, no matter the day or holiday, there are always traditional Greek dishes included on the menu. That being said, I want to share with you three Mediterranean-inspired recipes that are crafted for both comfort and nourishment and can bring Greek flavors to your Thanksgiving table this year!

In this recipe roundup we have Greek Salad Skewers, transforming a classic into a quick, fun and delicious finger food. Roasted Carrots with a Creamy Whipped Feta Dip, a perfect blend of sweet and savory that will elevate your side dish game, and finally, mini–Pork Souvlaki Skewers, that are sure to transport your taste buds to a taverna in Greece. 

GREEK SALAD SKEWERS – nutrients on a skewer. Cucumbers hydrate and provide vitamins, while cherry tomatoes offer antioxidants, olives bring healthy fats, and feta adds a boost of calcium. Drizzled with a light Greek dressing, these skewers not only refreshing and light but also offer essential nutrients with every bite. 

Makes 12 Skewers

Ingredients: 

1. 12 Cherry tomatoes 
2. 2-3 Small Cucumbers 
3. 1/2 Red Onion
4. 12 Pitted Kalamata Olives 
5. 8 oz. Feta Cheese (cut into 12 cubes)
6. Drizzle of Dressing (Olive oil, Salt, Pepper, Oregano) 

Directions:

1. Slice cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, pitted Kalamata olives, and feta into bite size pieces. 
2. Slide them on mini skewers. 
3. Plate, add a drizzle of dressing and sprinkle of oregano prior to serving. 
4. Enjoy! 

ROASTED CARROTS with CREAMY WHIPPED FETA – an elevated twist to a traditional Thanksgiving side dish. Carrots contain vitamin A and antioxidants, promoting eye health and overall well-being. While the Whipped Feta dip provides a boost of calcium and protein from the cheese, contributing to strong bones and teeth.  

Ingredients: 

1. 12-14 Large Carrots 
2. 2 tbsp. Olive Oil 
3. 1 tbsp. Greek Honey 
4. 1/4 tsp. Garlic Powder 
5. Salt & Pepper to taste 

For Dip: 

• 7 oz. Feta Cheese (can use reduced fat feta as well to bring down the calories from added fat)  
• 1 tbsp. 0% Greek Yogurt  
• 1 tbsp. Part Skim Ricotta  
• 1 tbsp. Olive oil
• 1.5 tsp. Honey  
• Juice of 1/2 a lemon
• Salt & Pepper to taste  
• Splash of milk to help liquify 

Directions: 

1. Peel carrots 
2. Drizzle olive oil (or Olive Oil Spray) and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Greek Honey 
3. Roast at 425 F for about 25 minutes, or until soft and golden brown
4. While carrots are cooking in the oven, prepare whipped feta dip: 
   • Blend all ingredients & store in refrigerator for about 10-15-minutes to thicken  
5. Spread whipped feta dip on platter and place roasted carrots on top
6. Sprinkle dill for garnish & Enjoy!

MINI PORK SOUVLAKI SKEWERS – an appetizer that can double as an additional protein option for those who don’t like turkey! Pork is rich in protein and B vitamins, crucial for energy metabolism. Dipping them in tzatziki made from Greek yogurt not only adds more protein but also a dose of probiotics, great for gut health.

Makes ~12 Pork Souvlaki Skewers

Ingredients: 

1. 16 oz. Pork Tenderloin (can be substituted with Chicken breast) 
2. 2 tbsp. Olive Oil 
3. 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder 
4. Juice of 1 Lemon 
5. 1/2 tsp. Oregano 
6. 1/2 tsp. Salt 
7. 1/4 tsp. Pepper 

Directions: 

1. Cut pork into small cubes and place in bowl 
2. In separate bowl whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon, oregano, salt and pepper
3. Pour mixture on pork
4. Put cubes of pork in roasting pan and broil for 12-15 minutes on each side, until fully cooked
5. Put 3-4 pieces of pork on each skewer 
6. Drizzle lemon and sprinkle of oregano on top before serving

Pairing a few mini Pork Souvlakia, with a couple of Greek Salad Skewers and side of carrots with whipped feta makes this recipe round up a nutrition trifecta! 

From the Ygeia Nutrition kitchen to yours, I wish you a cozy holiday season full of delicious food, joy, and laughter. Happy cooking and happy Thanksgiving! 

In good health,

Maria Stavropoulos, MS RD CDN

Registered Dietitian and Founder of Ygeia Nutrition