Preparing for Clean Monday Greek Style: A Fresh Start to Lent

Amanda Harrison
Feb 19
3 min read

Kites are traditionally flown on clean Monday. This picture shows vividly coloured kites against a clear blue sky.

Clean Monday, or "Kathara Deftera" in Greek, is a cherished day marking the beginning of Lent. It’s not just a religious tradition, but also a celebration of renewal, cleansing, and simplicity. Food takes centre stage on this day, as friends and family gather to enjoy delicious plant based dishes that honour both wellness and tradition. This year Clean Monday is celebrated on 3rd March 2025, and is always the day before Shrove Tuesday, known as pancake day in the UK.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to prepare for Clean Monday the Greek way, with tips on traditional foods, recipes, and the symbolism behind the day.

Friends and family gather around a beautifully decorated table under twinkling lights, sharing a vibrant plate of food and enjoying each other’s company on Clean Monday.

1. Understand the Meaning of Clean Monday

Clean Monday symbolizes spiritual and physical cleansing, offering a fresh start. It’s an opportunity to embrace simplicity, detox from indulgent foods, and focus on plant based, wholesome meals. This aligns beautifully with modern clean eating principles, making it a perfect day to celebrate health and culture.

2. Stock Up on Traditional Ingredients

Before Clean Monday arrives, stock your pantry with these essentials:

Lagana Bread: A special, flat unleavened bread made just for this day.
Olives: Kalamata and green olives are staples for the table.
Tahini: A sesame paste used for dips or drizzles.
Seafood: Octopus, calamari, or shrimp (traditionally without dairy or meat).
Vegetables: Fresh greens, courgette, aubergine, and tomatoes for salads and stews.
Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, or beans for soups and dips like fava.
Halva: A sweet semolina or tahini based dessert that’s dairy free.
Pickled Veggies: Pickles add tangy brightness to the spread.

3. Plan Your Clean Monday Menu

Here’s a simple menu to inspire your Clean Monday table:

Starters:
- Taramosalata: A creamy dip made from fish roe, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Fava Dip or Hummus: A smooth spread of chickpeas or yellow split peas (hummus and yellow split peas can be found in most supermarkets)
- Dolmadakia: Vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs (I've found tins and packets of these in Lidl).
Main Course:
- Seafood Platter: Grilled octopus or calamari served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.
- Gigantes Plaki: Baked giant beans in a tomato and herb sauce (I've found tins of these in lidl and coop).
Salads:
- Marouli Salad: A refreshing mix of lettuce, dill, spring onions and olive oil.
- Beetroot Salad: Boiled beetroot dressed with garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.
Dessert:
- Halva: Sweetened with honey or sugar and studded with nuts or dried fruit.

4. Include Symbolic Elements

Clean Monday meals often feature symbolic foods that reflect renewal and humility:

Greens: Represent the earth and rebirth.
Pickled Foods: A nod to preservation and simplicity.
Unleavened Bread (Lagana): Symbolizes purity and the absence of excess.

5. Enjoy with Family and Friends

Clean Monday is a time for gathering. Lay out a colourful table with sharing platters, and spend time with loved ones. It’s not just about the food but the togetherness it fosters.

6. Add a Healthy Twist

While honouring tradition, you can introduce modern twists:

Use whole-grain flour for Lagana bread.
Add extra veggies to dips and stews.
Sweeten Halva with natural sweeteners like dates or maple syrup.

7. Prepare for Outdoor Fun

A child skilfully flies a colourful kite under the clear blue sky, holding the string with both hands.

Clean Monday is also known for kite flying, symbolizing a spiritual ascent. Prepare kites with your children or loved ones to enjoy this joyful activity.

Final Thoughts

Clean Monday is an invitation to embrace simplicity, wellness, and gratitude. With the right preparation, you can honour Greek traditions while creating a clean, plant based feast that nourishes both body and soul.

Kali Sarakosti (Have a Good Lent)!