By Dimitris Pitarokilis, Executive Chef at Enorme Hotels & Villas
Mindfulness, for me, begins in the kitchen. It’s the moment you slow down, choose your ingredients with care and allow simplicity to lead the way. In a world that constantly asks for more, mindful cooking reminds us that less — when done well — is often everything.
Few dishes express this philosophy better than dakos. A timeless Cretan recipe, humble in its ingredients yet profound in its experience. It is no coincidence that dakos was recently recognised by TasteAtlas as the Best Salad for 2026 — a global acknowledgment of what we, in Crete, have always known: true pleasure lies in authenticity, balance and intention.
A Dish Rooted in Presence
Dakos teaches us to be present. There is no rush in preparing it — the barley rusk must soften, the tomato must be ripe and full of aroma, the olive oil generous but never careless. Each step invites attention, each bite rewards it.
At Enorme Hotels, this approach to food mirrors our approach to hospitality. We believe that mindful living is not about perfection, but about awareness — of taste, of place, of moment.
The Classic Dakos Recipe
A mindful ritual you can begin at home
Ingredients (serves 2):
- 2 barley rusks
- 2 ripe tomatoes, grated
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Mizithra or feta cheese
- Dried oregano
- Sea salt
- Optional: capers or olives
Method:
Lightly sprinkle the rusks with water until just softened.
Top with grated tomato, season with salt and drizzle generously with olive oil.
Add the cheese, finish with oregano and any optional additions.
Dakos as a Canvas
Thoughtful Variations on a Cretan Classic
Dakos welcomes creativity — as long as it remains intentional. Here are a few ways to elevate it while honouring its essence.
With Herbs & Aroma
Fresh thyme, capers or finely chopped basil awaken the dish without overpowering it.
Aromatic herbs stimulate the senses and deepen the experience.
With Texture & Creaminess
Beyond traditional mizithra, try:
- Soft anthotyro
- Lightly whipped feta cream
- A spoon of strained Greek yogurt
Each option transforms the mouthfeel while keeping the dish grounded.
With Depth from the Land
Sun-dried tomatoes, olive paste or a sprinkle of carob crumbs add earthiness and connect the dish more deeply to Cretan terroir.
With a Touch of the Sea
For a more complete summer plate, add:
- Marinated anchovies
- Smoked sardines
- Lightly cured mackerel
Used sparingly, they bring umami and reflect the island’s bond with the sea.
With Acidity & Contrast
A hint of lemon zest, a few pomegranate seeds or subtle balsamic pearls introduce brightness and balance — reminding us that mindfulness lives in nuance.
Mindfulness, One Bite at a Time
Dakos is not just a recipe. It is a reminder — that nourishment is both physical and emotional, that pleasure does not need excess, and that food, when prepared with intention, becomes an experience.
At Enorme Hotels, we invite our guests to enjoy dakos as we do: slowly, seasonally and with appreciation. Whether at our table or in your own home, let it be a moment to pause, connect and savour the good life — mindfully.
Dimitris Pitarokilis
Executive Chef at Enorme Hotels & Villas
