Greek Independence Day Supper Club Recap

March 25th is a double celebration for Greece – both a historical and a religious one. Greeks celebrate the beginning of the struggle for independence from the Ottomans in 1821. The Greek-Orthodox church celebrates the Annunciation by Archangel Gabriel to Virgin Mary, and that she should become the mother of Christ.

Forty guests attended this celebration dinner at Megas Restaurant, taking in appetizers, two starters, main course and dessert. Wines were paired by Kolonaki Group and the evening’s sponsor was Krinos Foods Canada. All the dishes were cooked using Golden Bless extra-virgin olive oil (from Astros, Peloponnese).

Each table had a basket of Olive and rosemary Lagana and a meze plate of mixed olives and toursi (pickled vegetables) from Krinos.

One of the appetizers passed to guests were Ouzo-poached Shrimp Cocktail with Smoked Taramosalata.

Next up were these mini Hortopites (greens pies) – prefect bite to whet one’s appetite for the feast ahead.

A March 25th classic was served as n appetizer size – Fried Bakaliaro Bites with Almond Skordalia. 

First sit down course was Lobster Salad on mixed greens, dill, citrus dressing.

Second course is one of my favourite Greek vegetarian dishes  – Artichokes ala Polita with fava beans.

The main course was Baked Fresh Cod Plaki with Potatoes.

I also prepared some Cuttlefish Plaki for some guests who couldn’t eat fish on this day.

Dessert time, Lemon-Scented Semolina Halva with a Makedonikos Halva ball.

Again, many thanks to the staff and management at Megas, our servers Amanda and Laura and my supportive and tireless partner, Paula Costa of My Portuguese Kitchen.

There will not be a Supper Club in April but I have a Fearless Phyllo Workshop at the Depanneur on April 8th. Some seats left, you can purchase your seats here.

Looking forward, pencil in Monday May 26th for my next Greek Supper Club, happening at the Mieli Market Kitchen overlooking Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market, rated as the “top 10 in the world”. More details and seats soon!