Greek Inspired

by Karin Calloway - July 2006

A salty breeze blows in from the coast and the sky has a golden hue. This is the image you can envision when you close your eyes and think of Greece. If travel plans aren’t on the horizon, this month’s Greek-inspired menu will take you on a culinary journey without a plane ticket.

The menu is perfect for summer entertaining. Begin with spicy Baked Feta on Croutons, which can be served as an appetizer or accompaniment to a lemon-enlivened Greek salad. Follow with simple Grilled Lamb Chops with Lemon and Oregano with a side of Lemon Orzo with Baby Spinach and Feta. The grand finale of Individual Baklava Cheesecakes can be served immediately after baking or prepared ahead.

Recipes:

	Baked Marinated Feta A block of salty feta and some crusty bread make an easy, impromptu appetizer. But marinate the feta in some good olive oil flavored with crushed red pepper, lemon, garlic and oregano then bake it in the oven and you have something truly delicious.More.
	Great Greek Salad Greek salads are pizzeria standards. Garnished with black Greek olives and pepperoncini peppers, tossed in tangy vinaigrette and sprinkled with feta cheese, they offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures – crisp, cool, salty and tart.More.
	Grilled Lamb Chops Chicken, steak, burgers – those are the items that most often hit the grill, making grilled lamb chops a special treat. These Grilled Lamb Chops with Lemon and Oregano are as simple to prepare as your usual grill fare, but they have a delicious Greek accent.More.
	Individual Baklava Cheesecakes Baklava is a favorite Greek dessert. Cross it with cheesecake and you have a sublime finale to any Greek meal.More.
	Spinach and Lemon Orzo Pilaf Spinach, lemon and feta are a common Greek combination. Add some orzo pasta and fresh herbs and you’ve got a dish that’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled lamb chops or served on its own as a Greek-inspired meatless entrée.More.