Greek & Mediterranean

Greek and Mediterranean pantries center on olive oil, herbs, olives and simple seasonings. This guide explains olive oil labels, mastiha, and the seasonings in this collection.

Greek and Mediterranean pantry basics

Olive oil is the foundation, and Greece is one of the world's largest producers, with Crete and the Peloponnese known for Koroneiki olives. Other staples include oregano, feta, olives such as Kalamata, and Chios mastiha, an aromatic resin from mastic trees grown on the Greek island of Chios and used in sweets, liqueurs and as a natural chewing gum.

How to choose

• Extra virgin olive oil: look for a harvest date and dark glass or a tin.
• High-phenolic oils: some oils state their polyphenol content (for example in mg/kg); higher numbers usually mean a more peppery, bitter taste.
• Mastiha: sold as tears (pieces), as powder or in sweets. A little goes a long way.
• Seasonings: Greek and gyro blends combine oregano, garlic, lemon and herbs for chicken, lamb and vegetables.

Brands and prices

Brands in this collection include APSOGO, Freestyle Snacks, P.J. KABOS, Cavender's, Spiceology and Boobie Brands. Most products are priced between $19 and $63. You'll also find items labeled gluten-free, vegan, organic and sugar-free by their makers.

Popular picks

• Sky Organics Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Olivea Ultra High Phenolic Olive Oil
• Organic Mastiha Chios 50G from Mediterranean Products Greek Farmers
• Genova Premium Tuna Mediterranean Lentil & Grain Salad Bowls
• McCormick Greek Style Gyro Seasoning with Tzatziki Sauce Mix
• NEW AGE Chlorophyll Fenugreek Capsules

How to use them

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over finished dishes, marinate chicken in lemon, garlic and Greek seasoning, or stir a pinch of mastiha powder into rice pudding or ice cream. Store olive oil away from light and heat.

Frequently asked questions

What is mastiha?

A natural resin from mastic trees on the island of Chios, Greece, with a pine-like, slightly minty flavor. It has protected-origin (PDO) status.

What does 'high-phenolic' olive oil mean?

Oil with higher levels of polyphenols, natural compounds that give it a peppery, bitter bite.

How long does olive oil keep?

It's best within about 12–18 months of harvest. Once opened, use it within a couple of months.