Dina Nikolaou is a renowned Greek culinary expert and chef, known for her innovative and delicious recipes. She has a passion for creating traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

In this article, we will explore some of Dina Nikolaou’s best recipes for spins and pastes, inspired by her rich Greek heritage.

1. Tzatziki Spin

Tzatziki is a classic Greek dip made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. Dina Nikolaou’s spin on this traditional recipe involves adding a handful of fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Serve this refreshing dip with grilled meats or as a topping for souvlaki.

2. Feta and Olive Paste

This creamy and tangy paste combines two Greek favorites – feta cheese and olives. Dina Nikolaou blends crumbled feta cheese, pitted Kalamata olives, extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of oregano to create a versatile paste.

Spread it on crusty bread, use it as a dip, or toss it with pasta for a quick and flavorful meal.

3. Beetroot Hummus

Hummus is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, but Dina Nikolaou takes it to the next level with her vibrant beetroot hummus.

By adding roasted beets to the traditional chickpea and tahini blend, she creates a stunning pink hummus that is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy it as a dip or spread it on your favorite sandwiches.

4. Spinach and Feta Spanakopita Triangles

Spanakopita is a popular Greek pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese. Dina Nikolaou’s recipe elevates this classic dish by turning it into bite-sized triangles.

The combination of wilted spinach, crumbled feta, onions, and herbs encased in crispy phyllo pastry will please both your eyes and taste buds. Serve these delicious triangles as a party appetizer or as part of a meze platter.

5. Tomato and Olive Tapenade

This tangy and salty tapenade is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Dina Nikolaou blends sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, garlic, and aromatic herbs to create a versatile paste that can be enjoyed in various ways.

Spread it on crostini, use it as a pizza topping, or mix it into pasta for a quick and tasty meal.

6. Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip

Roasted red peppers and walnuts come together in this flavorful dip that is perfect for any occasion. Dina Nikolaou roasts red bell peppers until they are sweet and smoky, then blends them with walnuts, garlic, cumin, and lemon juice.

The result is a creamy and nutty dip that pairs well with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or grilled meats.

7. Eggplant and Garlic Dip

Eggplants are a staple in Greek cuisine, and Dina Nikolaou showcases their versatility in this delicious dip. She roasts eggplants until soft and smoky, then combines them with garlic, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil.

The result is a creamy and flavorful dip that can be used as a spread on sandwiches, a topping for grilled meats, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.

8. Lemon and Herb Chicken Skewers

Dina Nikolaou’s lemon and herb chicken skewers are a perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner party.

She marinates chicken chunks in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, fresh herbs like thyme and oregano, and extra virgin olive oil before grilling them to perfection. Serve these juicy and flavorful skewers with a side of tzatziki and a Greek salad for a complete meal.

9. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are packed with flavor and make an excellent appetizer or side dish.

Dina Nikolaou fills button mushrooms with a mixture of wilted spinach, crumbled feta cheese, onions, and breadcrumbs, then bakes them until golden and bubbly. These stuffed mushrooms are both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.

10. Yogurt and Cucumber Spin

Dina Nikolaou’s yogurt and cucumber spin is a lighter and refreshing alternative to traditional tzatziki. She combines Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, and a splash of white wine vinegar to create a creamy and tangy dip.

Serve it as a dip for vegetable sticks, a sauce for grilled meats, or as a refreshing dressing for salads.