23/02/2026
ΚΑΛΗ ΣΑΡΑΚΟΣΤΗ!
Clean Monday & Sarakosti – The 40-Day Path to Greek Easter
Clean Monday marks the beginning of Sarakosti, the 40-day Lenten period that leads to Greek Easter — the most sacred and celebrated moment in the Greek calendar. It is a day rooted in purification, renewal, and the gentle transition into spring, when Greek families traditionally gather outdoors to share a table of fasting foods and begin this seasonal journey together.
The cuisine of Clean Monday and Lent reflects simplicity, balance, and respect for tradition. Meat and dairy are set aside, giving prominence to plant-based ingredients, legumes, grains, and seafood. Classic elements of the Sarakosti table include lagana (traditional unleavened flatbread), hummus, vine leaf dolmadakia, olives, giant beans, pickled vegetables, seasonal salads, kalamarakia (fried or grilled squid), octopus, shellfish, and sesame halva. The flavours are pure, Mediterranean, and deeply connected to Greek heritage.
Throughout Greece, these 40 days are a period of moderation and anticipation before the festive abundance of Easter. Clean Monday therefore holds a symbolic place as the ceremonial opening of this path toward Easter celebration.
The Greek Way offers authentic Greek catering across Kent, London, and the South East UK, and we are pleased to incorporate Clean Monday and Lenten dishes into bespoke menus upon request. These Sarakosti-appropriate selections are available throughout the entire Lenten season, allowing hosts and guests to experience refined Greek fasting cuisine and seasonal traditions wherever they are gathering.
