Horta (Greek Greens) is one of the easiest Greek dishes to prepare! These tasty greens are flavored with olive oil and fresh lemon juice, and are a staple dish in many Greek homes. Horta refers to any wild green, including endive, dandelion, or swiss chard. We prefer to use dandelion greens in our horta recipe, but feel free to experiment with other types. Many Greeks will tell you stories of how their Yiayia (grandmother) would go into the yard (theirs or a neighbor) or even stop the car on the side of the road to dig wild dandelion greens from the ground. We buy our greens from the grocery store during the winter months or from the farmers market in the summer. Nothing beats Yiayia’s fresh-picked greens from the ground, but these are a good substitute.
Packed with nutrients, greens top the charts in vitamins A, C, E and K. They provide a substantial amount of minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. An excellent dish to load up on heart-healthy nutrients!
More Healthy Greek Sides
- FASOLAKIA (GREEK GREEN BEANS IN TOMATO SAUCE)
- ARAKAS KOKINISTOS (GREEK PEAS)
- TRADITIONAL GREEK PEASANT SALAD (HORIATIKI SALAD)
- SPANAKORIZO (GREEK SPINACH & RICE)
- HORTA (GREENS) WITH POTATOES
Have you made this recipe for Horta (Greek Greens)? Or maybe you have a story or memory from eating them as a child? Tell us by commenting below! If you make this recipe and post it be sure to tag #Hearthealthygreek!
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Horta (Greek Greens)
Ingredients
- 3 lbs dandelion greens
- 2 lemons
- ¼ cup olive oil
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring water to a boil.
- While water is coming to a boil, trim and wash the greens, removing any brown leaves.
- Immerse the greens in a clean sink filled with water, swish greens around to remove sand/dirt. Remove greens from the sink, drain water, and refill sink with clean water. Soak and swish greens again. Depending on how much dirt is in the greens, you may have to do this 3 times, until no more dirt remains in the water.
- Add greens to boiling water, submerging them completely in water.
- Cook on medium, stirring occasionally for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the stems are fork-tender.
- Drain the water and place the cooked greens in a bowl.
- Dress the greens with olive oil and the juice of 2 lemons. Serve Horta warm or at room temperature.
Hello !
Thank you for the recipe.
Do you know what is the translation in greek for “dandelion greens” ?
Thank you for your time !
Your welcome Ioannis. Dandelion greens are called “horta”, the Greek spelling is Χόρτα. Hope this helps, have a great day!
-Christina & Alexa
Can you just use the dandelions in your garden?
Hi Christina
Yes, as long as you haven’t sprayed them with any pesticides. It’s best to pick dandelion greens when they are young and tender. Happy Cooking!
-Christina & Alexa