Local Cheeses: A Flavorful Specialty

Each island in the Cyclades has its own unique cheeses, often made from sheep’s or goat’s milk. Some popular cheeses include:

• Kopanisti (Mykonos) – A spicy, creamy cheese with an intense flavor. Perfect to spread on fresh bread with a drizzle of olive oil.
• San Michali (Syros) – A hard, golden cheese similar to Parmesan but with a distinctive salty taste.
• Arseniko (Naxos) – A traditional, aged spicy cheese often used in savory dishes.

Freshly Caught Seafood and Fish

Thanks to their location in the Aegean Sea, fresh fish and seafood are essential elements of Cycladic cuisine. Some typical dishes include:

• Grilled octopus – Often served with lemon and olive oil, a simple yet delicious dish.
• Kakavia – A traditional Greek fish soup made with various types of fish, potatoes, onions, and herbs.
• Stuffed squid – Squid filled with feta cheese and tomato, either grilled or baked.

Traditional Meat Dishes

Although seafood is widely consumed, the Cyclades also offer delicious meat dishes.

• Louza (Mykonos & Tinos) – A delicacy of dried and spiced pork, similar to prosciutto.
• Rosto (Sifnos) – A slow-cooked pork dish with garlic and herbs, served with pasta or potatoes.
• Kleftiko – A lamb dish baked in the oven for hours with garlic, herbs, and lemon.

Vegetable and Legume Dishes

The Cycladic cuisine heavily features fresh vegetables and legumes, often sourced from the islands themselves.

• Fava (Santorini) – A creamy puree made from yellow split peas, served with olive oil, onions, and lemon juice.
• Tomatokeftedes (Santorini) – Small fried tomato fritters, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
• Revithada (Sifnos) – A chickpea stew slow-cooked for hours in a traditional clay pot.

Sweet Treats and Desserts

Greece is famous for its sweet delicacies, and the Cyclades are no exception.

• Melopita (Sifnos) – A honey pie made with local honey and soft cheese.
• Pasteli – A traditional snack made from sesame seeds and honey, perfect for an energy boost.
• Amygdalota (Amorgos & Andros) – Almond cookies, often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Wines and Local Drinks

No meal in the Cyclades is complete without a good glass of local wine or a traditional liqueur.

• Assyrtiko (Santorini) – One of Greece’s most famous white wines, known for its crisp and mineral taste.
• Rakomelo – A mix of raki and honey, often served warm as a digestif.
• Souma (Paros) – A strong, clear spirit similar to ouzo.