Name: Horta (Boiled Greek Wild Leafy Greens)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: For the Wild Greens:; 1.5 kg wild greens (53 oz) – dandelion greens, amaranth greens, Swiss chard, sorrel, or any robust leafy greens; 1 red onion, finely chopped; 1 leek, cut into strips; ½ bunch fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tbsp sea salt; 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; For the Feta Sauce:; 80 ml milk (¼ cup); 80 ml heavy cream (¼ cup); 300 g feta cheese (10.5 oz); ½ tbsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ tsp sweet paprika

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Horta (Boiled Greek Wild Leafy Greens), a traditional Greek dish, consists of tender wild leafy greens boiled to perfection and topped with a rich feta sauce. This dish, often served as a healthy side or light main, combines the earthy flavors of wild greens like dandelion, amaranth, and Swiss chard with the creaminess of feta cheese, making for a comforting and nutritious meal. Served with olive oil, lemon, and a creamy feta dressing, it’s a true taste of Greece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Horta is not only a nourishing dish but also a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. The wild greens offer a unique, slightly bitter flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the feta sauce. The feta sauce itself is velvety smooth, blending creaminess with a touch of sweetness from the paprika and the fragrant thyme. This dish is both hearty and light, making it an ideal addition to any meal, whether as a side, a starter, or a light vegetarian main. Horta (Boiled Greek Wild Leafy Greens)

Ingredients

For the Wild Greens:
1.5 kg wild greens (53 oz) – dandelion greens, amaranth greens, Swiss chard, sorrel, or any robust leafy greens
1 red onion, finely chopped
1 leek, cut into strips
½ bunch fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tbsp sea salt
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Feta Sauce:
80 ml milk (¼ cup)
80 ml heavy cream (¼ cup)
300 g feta cheese (10.5 oz)
½ tbsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
½ tsp sweet paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Wild Greens:

Wash the wild leafy greens thoroughly and drain well.
In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté the onions and leeks for 3-4 minutes, until wilted.
Add the wild greens to the pan and mix with a wooden spoon. Once they wilt, reduce the heat and add ½ cup of water.
Cover the saucepan and simmer for 35 minutes, or until the greens are fully boiled.

Make the Feta Sauce:

In a blender, add the crushed feta cheese.
In a small pot, warm the milk and heavy cream over low heat. Before it starts boiling, remove from the heat and let it cool for 1 minute.
Add the milk and cream mixture, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend until the sauce is smooth.

Assemble and Serve:

Serve the horta (wild greens) at room temperature, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice.
Top with the feta sauce and optionally garnish with some grated tomato.
Enjoy this healthy and delicious Greek classic!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Try different greens: If you can’t find wild greens, you can substitute with spinach, kale, or collard greens for a similar texture and flavor.
Add nuts: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or almonds on top.
Make it vegan: To make this dish vegan, use a dairy-free feta or cashew cream sauce as a substitute for the feta sauce.
Add garlic: For extra flavor, sauté garlic with the onions and leeks.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover horta and feta sauce can be stored in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the horta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary. Reheat the feta sauce on the stove or in the microwave until warm, but be careful not to overheat as the cream may separate.

FAQs

What are wild greens?

Wild greens refer to a variety of hearty, nutrient-dense leafy greens that grow in the wild, such as dandelion greens, amaranth, and sorrel. They are often slightly bitter but rich in flavor and nutrients.

Can I use regular spinach instead of wild greens?

Yes, you can use spinach or other greens like kale or Swiss chard if wild greens are not available. While they may lack the same intensity of flavor, they will still work beautifully in this dish.

How do I make sure the wild greens are clean?

Make sure to wash the greens thoroughly in cold water, and if they are particularly gritty, soak them for 10-15 minutes in water to loosen any dirt.

Can I use low-fat milk and cream for the feta sauce?

Yes, you can use lower-fat milk and cream, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy. Full-fat dairy will provide the richest texture.

What kind of feta cheese should I use?

Traditional Greek feta cheese made from sheep’s milk will provide the best flavor. However, cow’s milk feta can also be used if that’s what you have available.

Can I prepare the feta sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the feta sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

How do I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the feta sauce for extra heat.

Can I freeze leftover horta?

While it’s not ideal to freeze cooked leafy greens as they can lose texture, you can freeze leftover horta for up to a month. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, lamb, or even a poached egg on top for a more filling meal.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Horta is a flavorful, wholesome Greek dish that beautifully highlights the natural goodness of wild leafy greens. With its rich feta sauce and simple preparation, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious, comforting meal. Whether served as a side dish or as a light main, it’s a perfect introduction to Greek cuisine. Enjoy this fresh, vibrant dish on your next meal rotation!