Central Market's Passport Greece

From April 29th through May 12th, both Central Market locations in Austin will be presenting Passport Greece, a celebration of all that is Greek and delicious. I was lucky enough to be invited to a media event showcasing some of the food items that will be available during the festival. Below are my favorite bites of the evening.

Arvantis barrel aged feta P.D.O. paired with Nefali brand Purely Greek Sweet Kalamata Relish with Figs & Almonds and my very favorite go-to crackers (usually found on a table between the freezer cases and the cheese counter at the North Lamar store). A perfect sweet-salty bite that would make a lovely and easy appetizer.

Raw bulgur salad (the bulgur was soaked in orange juice until it was properly softened) with orange, fig, and pine nuts - so refreshing and citrusy! Paired with some of the most wonderful dolmades I've ever tasted.

I love a good gyro, and this one did not disappoint. I initially thought that it was an inauthentic (but tasty) move for Central Market to pile French fries in their gyros, but my friend Linda - who was in Greece last year - tells me that they do this in Greece, too. I can't believe I've been tolerating fry-less gyros my whole life!

No Greek festival would be complete without flaky baklava.
If you love yours super sweet, this version will make you happy.

In addition to offering a number of Greek favorites that aren't usually available in their stores, Central Market will also be offering cooking classes showcasing Greek chefs; Greek wine tastings and wine dinners, and even a Greek Market Stroll where you can wander through the market sampling Greek foods (in other words, just like a normal day at Central Market, except the samples will all be Greek). Check out the schedule of planned offerings at this link. And do it quickly - it would be a real pita if you missed the fun!