Last summer, I visited the island of Ikaria, located in the Northeast Aegean, just southwest of the island of Samos. For many years the island was known as a place of exile for communists and where hippies liked to hang out. Not anymore….Ikaria, the island where people forget to die!

With a combination of a laid back lifestyle, a healthy daily routine (walks and naps) and a traditional Mediterranean diet, folks on Ikaria have longer lifespans than most of the world and it’s now been designated a one of the five Blue Zones in the world.

The food on the island fresh, simple and always delicious. The landscape, rugged but breathtaking and the people of Ikaria, laidback, always kind…to neigbors and tourists.

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Appetizers:

Fried Zucchini with Taro Skordalia

Ikarian Phyllo Pie with Greens, Fennel and Feta (made with homemade phyllo)

Soufiko (Ikarian Specialty) with onions, zucchini, eggplant, onions, peppers and tomatoes

Homemade Bread

1st course: Arugula Salad with Sweet Potatoes & Feta

2nd course: Ikarian Wedding Rice (Gamopilafo)

Main course: Roast Goat with Lemon, Oregano, Garlic and Crisp Potatoes

Dessert: Portokalopita – a moist orange pie with phyllo, yogurt, spices and soaked in honey syrup