Ancient Greece remains one of the most storied periods in human history. It was an age of enlightenment. Philosophers like Plato and Aristotle questioned humanity’s place in the universe, the first Olympic games were held, and theater became a popular recreational activity. The ancient Greeks nourished their bodies as well as their minds, consuming what was available and nutrient-dense. Learn More about the ingredients that defined ancient Greek food below.

What Was Food Like in Ancient Greece?

1. Fruit & Vegetables

A visit to the market in ancient Greece would dazzle the eyes thanks to an abundance of colorful fruits and vegetables. Soups featuring boiled or mashed vegetables seasoned with herbs and olive oil were a staple of Greek food. Popular vegetables included lettuce, carrots, radishes, celery, garlic, leeks, cabbages, and turnips. Olives were the most-used fruits, and were consumed either whole or in oil form. Other favorite fruits included grapes, apples, figs, plums, and pears, which were consumed fresh or dried.

2. Nuts, Beans, & Grains

The ancient Greek diet included plenty of legumes, grains, and nuts, such as lentils, yellow and green peas, walnuts, almonds, and beechnuts, among others. Lentils and other legumes were favored crops since they restored barren soil. The ancient Greeks used emmer and barley for soups, porridges, and stews, with Romans referring to the Greeks as “barley eaters.” Since wheat was not native to the country, barley cakes and flat breads served as bread for the lower classes.

3. Fish & Seafood

Much of ancient Greek food came from the ocean instead of a farm since livestock required grain stores. Meat consumption was relatively low in ancient Greece, as people mainly consumed fish and seafood over livestock and game. Popular dishes in the ancient Greek islands would include mollusk-based foods like octopus and squid, as well as crayfish. For saltwater fish, the Greeks preferred yellowfin tuna, gray and red mullet, sea bass, eel, and grouper.

Savor authentic Greek fare at Yia Yia’s Homemade Greek Food, the restaurant serving hungry customers throughout New York City, NY. Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options are all available. Call (212) 452-1210 today to place an order or review the menu online.