Help-Yourself Greek Feast Platter

This Help-Yourself Greek Feast Platter is a no-oven, summer-friendly dinner loaded with marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy yogurt sauce—perfect for easy, build-your-own meals.

Help-Yourself Greek Feast Platter

I love summer dinners that don’t require an oven. When the sun is still hanging in the sky and the air smells like fresh herbs and warm pavement, the last thing I want to do is turn on the stove for an hour. That’s where this Help-Yourself Greek Feast Platter comes in—a no-fuss, flavor-forward way to gather, eat, and enjoy the moment.

This recipe was born out of one of those end-of-week fridge raids—the kind where you’re not sure what’s for dinner, but you are sure you’re not spending your evening over a hot stove. I had some chicken, a few crisp cucumbers, the tail end of a feta block, and a couple of flatbreads hanging out in the freezer. With a quick marinade and a skillet sear, dinner transformed into a hands-on Greek-inspired platter that felt like it came from a little taverna by the sea.

What makes this meal shine isn’t just the bold Mediterranean flavors (though, hello lemony garlic yogurt sauce and oregano-marinated chicken!). It’s the build-your-own nature of it all. Everyone gets to grab what they want—pile up the veggies, dip the chicken, wrap it all up in warm bread or eat it mezze-style with a fork. It’s casual, colorful, and completely stress-free.

Perfect for warm nights when appetites are big but patience for cooking is low, this platter has become a go-to in our summer dinner rotation. No oven. No drama. Just a sun-soaked meal worth gathering around.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this Greek-inspired platter to life:

For the Chicken & Marinade:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Red wine vinegar
• Fresh lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Granulated sugar
• Dried oregano
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper
• Olive oil

For the Yogurt Garlic Sauce:

• Plain Greek yogurt
• Fresh garlic
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Optional: Fresh dill or parsley

For the Platter:

• English cucumber
• Roma tomatoes
• Feta cheese (preferably from a block)
• Flatbreads or naan

Substitution and Variations

Substitutions 

• Chicken breasts → Chicken thighs work just as well and stay extra juicy.

• Red wine vinegar → White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

• Greek yogurt → Plain whole-milk yogurt (non-Greek) or plant-based yogurt for dairy-free.

• Flatbread/naan → Pita bread, lavash, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

• Feta cheese → Goat cheese or dairy-free feta substitute.

Variations

• Grilled Version – Instead of pan-searing, grill the marinated chicken bites for a smoky, outdoor flavor.

• Loaded Platter – Add extras like olives, roasted red peppers, or hummus for a true mezze spread.

• Spicy Kick – Mix a little harissa or red pepper flakes into the marinade for a bold twist.

Kitchen Tips or Notes

• Marinating Matters: Even 30 minutes will infuse great flavor, but for the juiciest chicken, marinate up to 2 hours.

• Cut Evenly: Cut chicken into similar-sized bites so they cook evenly and stay tender.

• Warm the Bread: A quick toast or skillet warm-up makes the flatbread soft, pliable, and extra delicious.

• Make Ahead: The yogurt garlic sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

"Set the Mood"

Picture this: a warm breeze drifting through the air, the sun dipping low enough to paint everything golden, and a table scattered with colorful bowls of cucumber, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta, and lemony chicken bites. This is a meal that practically begs to be enjoyed alfresco.

Lay out your platter on a big wooden board or a collection of mismatched serving dishes for a laid-back, rustic feel. Keep stacks of warm flatbreads nearby, a bowl of creamy yogurt garlic sauce front and center, and a few sprigs of fresh herbs tucked in for a pop of color. No fuss. No formality. Just the kind of casual abundance that gets people lingering at the table a little longer.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings:

• Sides: Add a crisp Greek salad, a bowl of marinated olives, or roasted potatoes with lemon and herbs.

• Drinks: Pair with chilled white wine, sparkling lemonade, or even a round of poolside cocktails like Aperol spritzes or mojitos.

• Sweet Finish: Serve fresh fruit—think watermelon slices, cherries, or grapes—right at the table for an effortless dessert.

Perfect Venues for Your Greek Feast:

• Brunch Gatherings: Swap the flatbreads for mini pitas and add a few breakfast-style mezze like herbed scrambled eggs or roasted veggies.

• Poolside Parties: Keep everything chilled in the shade, and let guests fill wraps between swims.

• Casual Backyard Dinners: Serve family-style with big pitchers of sangria or iced tea for that stay-all-night feel.

• Potluck with Friends: Everyone can bring one mezze component—hummus, olives, roasted peppers—and you provide the chicken and bread.

This isn’t just dinner—it’s a relaxed summer ritual that turns any table, patio, or picnic blanket into a little slice of the Mediterranean.

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💬 Let’s Chat!

Have you tried this Greek platter? What are your favorite summer dishes? Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @SliceofSouthern—I’d love to see how yours turns out!

Creamy Summer Labneh with Peaches, Pistachios & Prosciutto – A Modern Mediterranean Mezze

This Creamy Summer Labneh with Peaches, Pistachios, & Prosciutto is a vibrant blend of sweet and savory. Topped with fresh fruit, herby oils, and warm pita, it's the perfect modern Mediterranean mezze for effortless summer entertaining.

Creamy Summer Labneh with Peaches, Pistachios & Prosciutto – A Modern Mediterranean Mezze

Warm summer evenings and a night out to celebrate—what more could you ask for?  My husband and I recently visited a new Mediterranean restaurant for a special night out, and while the entire meal was outstanding, it was the appetizer that I couldn't get out of my head.  It was a whipped burrata dish topped with juicy stone fruit, paper-thin prosciutto, and fresh arugula—a beautiful balance of creamy, sweet, savory, and peppery that we devoured without hesitation.

For days I couldn’t stop thinking about it and just new I had to re-create this dish. I loved the combination of flavors, but I wanted to make it my own—with a little twist. Instead of burrata, I reached for labneh, a rich and tangy strained yogurt that brings that same creamy texture but with a bit more substance and a fresh Mediterranean feel. Paired with diced peaches and nectarines, chopped pistachios, torn prosciutto, and a drizzle of basil and pistachio oils, it turned into a mezze-style platter that felt just as indulgent, but even easier to pull together.

This dish is as fresh and vibrant as summer itself, and honestly—it couldn’t be simpler. Just spread, sprinkle, drizzle, and serve. The result is a beautiful, flavor-packed appetizer that looks impressive on the table but takes only minutes to assemble. Whether you’re hosting friends or just adding something special to a quiet night in, this modern Mediterranean mezze is bound to become a seasonal favorite.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this creamy, summery mezze to life:

• Labneh – Tangy, rich, and creamy. This is the base of your dish and adds that perfect savory note.

• Peach & Nectarine – Juicy and sweet, diced for a burst of summer flavor in every bite.

• Prosciutto – Thinly sliced and torn into ribbons. Adds a salty contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.

• Arugula – Peppery and fresh, it balances the creaminess and adds a pop of green.

• Pistachios – Chopped for crunch and nutty richness.

• Basil oil – Herby and aromatic, perfect for drizzling.

• Pistachio oil – Adds depth and a luxe finish.

• Pita wedges – Warmed just before serving for the perfect dipper.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? Here are a few easy swaps using pantry or grocery staples:

• Labneh → Use full-fat Greek yogurt (strained overnight with cheesecloth) or whipped cream cheese for a similar texture.

• Prosciutto → Try crisped-up pancetta, thin slices of salami, or even omit for a vegetarian version.

• Pistachios → Swap with chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.

• Basil oil / Pistachio oil → Drizzle with good-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint.

Variations

Want to change it up a little? Try one of these flavorful twists:

• Make it Vegetarian: Skip the prosciutto and add crumbled feta or marinated olives for a salty bite.

• Add a Sweet Drizzle: A touch of honey or pomegranate molasses can elevate the fruit and bring a sweet-savory balance.

• Swap the Fruit: Use plums, cherries, or figs in place of peaches and nectarines depending on what’s ripe and in season.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prep the labneh base and toppings ahead of time, then assemble just before serving.

• Warm the Pita: Lightly toast or warm pita wedges right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

• Use a Shallow Platter: This makes it easier to spread the labneh and build those beautiful layers on top.

• Don’t Skip the Drizzle: Even just a swirl of olive oil and a few fresh herbs brings the whole dish together.

     "Set the Mood"     

This mezze-style appetizer was practically made for lingering summer evenings. Whether you’re dining al fresco under string lights or setting out a spread for weekend brunch, this dish brings that effortless wow-factor that turns any table into a celebration.

Serve it on a beautiful shallow platter with warmed pita wedges tucked alongside and a chilled glass of rosé or sparkling water with citrus slices. It’s just as perfect for a low-key poolside snack as it is for a backyard gathering or bridal brunch. Want to make it feel even more Mediterranean? Add a few small plates of olives, marinated feta, or stuffed grape leaves for an easy mezze board moment.

From garden parties to casual cocktail nights, this creamy summer labneh fits right in—and makes your guests feel like they’re somewhere just a little bit special.

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Rustic Tomato Galette with Gruyere & Thyme – Simple, Stunning, Delicious

A French-inspired twist on classic Southern tomato pie—this rustic galette with Gruyère, Dijon, and thyme celebrates summer tomatoes in all their glory.

Rustic Tomato Galette with Gruyere & Thyme – Simple, Stunning, Delicious

Summer reminds me of fresh vine-ripened tomatoes and all the dishes made from them. One of my favorite childhood memories is of my mom making a classic Southern tomato pie—juicy tomato slices layered into a buttery crust and topped with a tangy mix of cheese and mayo. It was simple, comforting, and deeply tied to the rhythm of summer.

This Rustic Tomato Galette with Gruyère & Thyme is my take on that tradition, reimagined with a French twist. I kept the essence—sun-ripened tomatoes and plenty of cheese—but traded the mayo topping for a swipe of bold Dijon and swapped in melty Gruyère and nutty Parmesan for a more savory, elegant feel. Wrapped in a flaky, golden crust and finished with fresh herbs, it’s just as nostalgic as the pie I grew up with, but elevated in the best way.

Whether you serve it warm on a breezy back porch or at room temp with a glass of chilled wine, this galette is pure summer—rustic, refined, and packed with the kind of flavor only a fresh tomato can deliver.

 

What Ingredients Do I Need?

This rustic tomato galette keeps things simple, letting seasonal ingredients shine. Here’s what you’ll need to bring it all together:

• All-purpose flour – For the buttery homemade galette crust.

• Unsalted butter – Keeps the crust rich and flaky.

• Ice water – Helps the dough come together without overworking it.

• Fresh tomatoes – Vine-ripened, juicy, and full of summer flavor.

• Shallot – Adds a hint of mild, sweet onion flavor.

• Olive oil – For tossing the tomato mixture and enhancing richness.

• Fresh thyme – Brings an earthy, aromatic touch to the filling.

• Garlic – Adds savory depth.

• Dijon mustard – The secret layer of sharp, tangy contrast under the tomatoes.

• Gruyère cheese – Melty, nutty, and rich.

• Parmesan cheese – For a salty, umami finish.

• Egg – Brushed on the crust for a beautiful golden color.

• Fresh basil – A final herbal flourish before serving.

• Salt & pepper – Seasoning to enhance every bite.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Want to customize your galette or work with what you have on hand? Here are some easy swaps:

• Gruyère cheese → Use sharp white cheddar, Fontina, or Comté for a similar melty texture and depth.

• Parmesan cheese → Try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even grated aged cheddar.

• Shallot → Substitute with a few thin slices of red onion or green onions.

• Fresh thyme → Dried thyme works in a pinch, or swap in oregano or Herbes de Provence.

• Dijon mustard → Use whole grain mustard for texture or stone-ground mustard for a milder bite.

• Tomatoes → Any variety works—heirloom, Roma, cherry (halved), or even a mix for added color.

• Homemade crust → Short on time? A store-bought pie crust or puff pastry will do in a pinch—just adjust baking time as needed.

Variations

This tomato galette is endlessly versatile—perfect for adapting to what’s in season or what you’re craving. Here are two delicious variations to try:

• Caprese-Inspired Galette:  Layer in a few slices of fresh mozzarella with the Gruyère, and top with cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking. Finish with fresh basil for a galette that echoes the flavors of a classic Caprese salad.

• Roasted Mushroom & Tomato Galette:  Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms (cremini or shiitake work beautifully) beneath the tomatoes. The earthy mushrooms pair perfectly with the Gruyère and thyme, giving this variation a deeper, more savory flavor—great for late summer or early fall.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Salt your tomatoes! – Don’t skip the salting and draining step—it’s key to preventing a soggy crust and concentrating tomato flavor.

• Chill the dough thoroughly – A well-chilled dough rolls out more easily and bakes up flakier.

• Don’t worry about perfection – The beauty of a galette is in its rustic charm. Pleat the edges loosely and let it be freeform.

• Tomato variety matters – Use the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find—heirlooms, Romas, or even colorful cherry tomatoes all work well.

• Leftovers? – Store any leftover slices in the fridge and reheat gently in a 300°F oven to revive the crisp crust.

What to Serve with Rustic Tomato Galette with Gruyere & Thyme

This rustic tomato galette makes a gorgeous centerpiece for any summer meal. Here are a few favorite ways to serve it:

• Pair with a crisp green salad – A simple mix of arugula or baby greens with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the galette.

• Serve as a brunch or lunch main – Slice it into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature with iced tea, sparkling water, or a light white wine.

• Add it to a summer picnic spread – This galette travels well and doesn’t mind being eaten at room temp—perfect for park blankets or backyard tables.

• Make it part of a casual dinner – Round out the meal with grilled veggies, corn on the cob, or a chilled cucumber soup.

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