What To Serve With Lamb Kleftiko: BEST Sides!

ByViolet ParkerEditorial Policy

A wonderfully rustic Greek dish with slow cooked lamb marinaded in olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs, kleftiko is one of those meals that once you sample on a sunny holiday, you’ll want to recreate time and time again at home. 

Choosing the right sides is a crucial part of the planning process, and here you’re going to find all the inspiration you need. 

From colourful grilled veggies, to pillowy homemade pitas, let’s dive into what to serve with lamb kleftiko… 

Potatoes and Vegetables

Lamb kleftiko pairs wonderfully with various potato and vegetable dishes, adding extra flavours and textures to your meal. Let’s dive into three delicious options to serve alongside your scrumptious lamb.

Greek Lemon Roasted Potatoes

Topping the list, we have the ever-popular roasties. One delightful option is lemon roasted potatoes, which are crispy and packed with tangy zest. 

They’re super crunchy on the outside, fluffy and soft on the inside, and the flavour of the lemon really helps all the other elements on the plate to shine. 

Most kleftiko recipes will involve cooking potatoes in the parcel alongside the lamb, but due to the cooking method, the end result is typically melty and soft, almost similar to mash. I highly recommend whipping up an extra portion of roasties, and I guarantee that they’ll be a big hit with your guests! 

Mediterranean Ratatouille

Bring the flavours of the Mediterranean to your table with a delectable ratatouille. Packed with ingredients like bell peppers, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, this colourful side introduces fresh, vibrant flavours that are sure to elevate your lamb kleftiko.

This classic ratatouille recipe includes aubergine and courgette, and has the added benefit of being a one-pan dish. 

Grilled Vegetables

Finally, consider serving grilled vegetables to add a smoky, slightly charred flavour to your meal. You can grill favourites like zucchini, bell peppers, and aubergine, then drizzle with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning.

This healthy and delicious side is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors with your lamb kleftiko, or simply bringing some warmth to your indoor dining experience. Your taste buds will thank you!

Breads and Grains

Let’s talk about some scrumptious and satisfying  sides that you can pair with your mouth-watering lamb kleftiko! When it comes to breads and grains, two popular choices are a classic pita bread and a delicious orzo pasta salad.

Pita Bread

The all-time favourite, pita bread, is an absolute delight when it comes to what to serve with lamb kleftiko. It’s a versatile must-have side with Greek cuisine. This traditional flatbread has an uncanny talent for soaking up all the juicy goodness from your main dish, ensuring no flavour is left behind.

This homemade pita recipe creates flatbreads that are soft, fluffy, and authentic, just like the ones you enjoy in a traditional taverna. 

Orzo Pasta Salad

Moving on to a grainy delight, the orzo pasta salad is a match made in heaven for your lamb kleftiko. This tiny pasta resembles rice grains, making it a delightful picnic in your mouth! To create this masterpiece, simply combine cooked orzo with a variety of chopped veggies, herbs, and some feta cheese. Don’t forget to add a zesty lemony dressing to tie everything together!

Not only does the orzo pasta salad play well with textures, but it also adds an explosion of flavours that make your lamb kleftiko experience truly unforgettable. So go ahead and whip up this scrumptious side!

Desserts and Drinks

Lamb kleftiko’s rich flavours need equally delightful desserts and drinks to complement the dining experience. Let’s explore a few options that will leave your taste buds asking for an encore.

Baklava

A Greek feast isn’t complete without the classic dessert, Baklava. This honey-soaked pastry piled with layers of flaky filo dough and a mix of crushed nuts is a heavenly treat. Enjoy it with a cup of Greek coffee or an ice-cold frappé to round out the meal perfectly.

For those with a penchant for experimentation, the world of baklava offers many variations, such as:

  • Walnut Baklava
  • Pistachio Baklava
  • Chocolate Baklava

Greek Wine

Washing down a hearty lamb kleftiko with refreshing Greek wine sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. But remember, there’s more to the Greek wine scene than just Retsina (though it’s worth a try).

Here are a few other Greek wines for your consideration…

  • Assyrtiko: A dry and crisp white wine from the island of Santorini.
  • Agiorgitiko: A versatile red wine from the Peloponnese.
  • Mavrodafni: Velvety sweet red, perfect for sipping alongside baklava after your main course. 

Now that you have your options sorted for what to serve with lamb kleftiko, you’re all set for an unforgettable Greek dining adventure.

Remember to save some room for that second helping of baklava, because trust me, you’ll want it!