Cretan Dakos

Cretan Dakos is a traditional Greek dish that’s simple, refreshing, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s made with barley rusks, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta or mizithra cheese. Here’s how to make it:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

  • 2 large barley rusks (Cretan paximadia)
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, finely grated or chopped
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese or Cretan mizithra, crumbled
  • Extra virgin olive oil (about 4 tbsp)
  • A few olives (optional, for garnish)
  • Dried oregano, to taste
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Rusks:
    Lightly moisten the barley rusks with a bit of water. Don’t soak them—just a quick splash to soften the outer layer while keeping the inside crunchy.
  2. Tomato Topping:
    Grate the tomatoes into a bowl. Add a pinch of sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well.
  3. Assemble the Dakos:
    Place the rusks on a plate.
    Spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the rusks, letting the juices soak in slightly.
    Crumble the feta or mizithra cheese on top.
  4. Final Touch:
    Drizzle generously with olive oil.
    Sprinkle dried oregano over everything.
    Garnish with olives and fresh basil if desired.
  5. Serve:
    Enjoy immediately as a light meal or appetizer!