There’s something magical about simple dishes that burst with flavor. This traditional Cretan dados gets a delicious twist with creamy sour cheese and the distinctive sweetness of Florina peppers. When you rub the ripe tomatoes and roasted pepper together, they create a vibrant, slightly sweet base that perfectly soaks into the crunchy barley rusks. It’s the ultimate no-fuss summer meal—whether you need a quick appetizer, a light lunch, or a flavorful side for grilled meats.
Recipe: Cretan Dakos with Sour Cheese & Florina Pepper
Author: Gastronomist
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 6 large barley rusks (or 12 small dakos)
- 300 g sour cheese (like feta or mizithra), crumbled
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 Florina pepper, roasted and grated
- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 sprig fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried Greek oregano)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Kalamata olives, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato-Pepper Base
- Grate the peeled tomatoes into a bowl, catching all their juices.
- Roast the Florina pepper (over a flame, in the oven, or in a pan) until charred. Let it cool, peel off the skin, remove seeds, then grate or finely chop.
- Mix the grated tomato and pepper together—this sweet, tangy mash will be the heart of your dakos.
Step 2: Assemble the Dakos
- Place the barley rusks on a serving platter. If they’re very hard, you can lightly sprinkle them with water to soften slightly (but don’t overdo it—they should stay crunchy!).
- Spoon the tomato-pepper mixture generously over each rusk, letting it soak in.
- Crumble the sour cheese on top—use a briny feta for bold flavor or mizithra for a milder taste.
Step 3: Finish & Serve
- Drizzle each dakos with olive oil—this is essential for richness and authenticity!
- Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with Kalamata olives and serve immediately while the rusks are still crisp.
Why This Dish Works
✨ Sweet & Savory Balance – The Florina pepper adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy cheese.
✨ Textural Perfection – Crunchy rusks + juicy tomato mix + creamy cheese = irresistible contrast.
✨ 5-Minute Magic – No cooking required (just roasting the pepper ahead if needed).
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with a chilled glass of Assyrtiko wine or a crisp lager.
- Add a side of marinated anchovies or grilled octopus for a seafood twist.
Tip: Can’t find Florina peppers? Use roasted red peppers, but add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.