What kind of vegetables did the Greeks eat?

The ancient Greeks consumed a wide variety of fresh and dried vegetables as important components of their diet. Here are some of the common vegetables consumed by the Greeks:

1. Legumes:

- Lentils (φακῆ, phakē): Lentils were a staple in Greek cuisine. They were used in soups, stews, and as fillings in pies.

- Beans (κύαμοι, kúa,moi): Various beans, such as fava beans and chickpeas, were popular and used in dishes like "κυαμοί σπορίτες" (boiled fava beans).

2. Leafy Greens:

- Lettuce (θρίδαξ, thrīdax): Different types of lettuce were used in salads and as garnishes.

- Cabbage (κράμβη, krámbē): Cabbage was consumed both raw and cooked.

- Mustard Greens (σῖναπι, sīnapi): The Greeks consumed mustard greens as well, sometimes using them in sauces.

- Mallow (μαλάχη, malákhē): Mallow leaves were commonly used in soups and stews.

- Parsley (σέλινoν, sélinon): Parsley was used as an herb and a vegetable.

3. Root Vegetables:

- Onions (κρόμμυον, krómmyon): Onions were widely used for flavoring and in dishes such as "κρομμυόσουπας" (onion soup).

- Garlic (σκόρδoν, skórdon): Garlic was also a common ingredient for adding flavor to dishes.

- Turnips (γόγγυλος, gógglylos): Turnips were often boiled and seasoned with olive oil and herbs.

- Radishes (ῥάφανος, rháphanos): Radishes were consumed for their spicy taste.

4. Cucumbers:

- Cucumbers (σίκυoς, síkyos): Cucumbers were versatile and used in salads, soups, as well as pickled and preserved.

5. Tomatoes:

- Tomatoes (στρύχνος, strýkhnons): While not native to Greece, tomatoes were introduced by the Spanish in the 1500s and quickly became popular in Greek cuisine.

6. Squashes and Melons:

- Different varieties of squashes and melons, including watermelons and cantaloupes, were grown and consumed.

7. Herbs:

- In addition to vegetables, herbs played an important role in Greek cooking. Common herbs included oregano, thyme, mint, basil, and dill.

The availability of vegetables depended on the region and season, with some areas known for certain crops. In general, the Greek diet was plant-based, and vegetables formed an important part of their daily meals.