Souvlaki Greek Grilled Skewers Recipe

Cook Time: 55 minutes  

   Prep Time: 35 minutes

Souvlaki Greek Grilled Skewers Ingredients

Souvlaki Greek Grilled Skewers Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried Greek oregano, chopped fresh thyme leaves, smoked paprika, ground cumin, freshly ground black pepper, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
  2. Add the 1-inch cubes of pork shoulder to the marinade, tossing thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. About 30 minutes before grilling, soak wooden skewers in water if using, to prevent burning. If using metal skewers, skip this step.
  4. Remove the marinated pork from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, thread the pork cubes onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of red onion, green bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper, until all ingredients are used.
  5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the pork is cooked through and has a nice char on all sides, and the vegetables are slightly softened.
  7. Transfer the grilled souvlaki to a platter and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  8. Garnish the souvlaki with finely chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Estimated Calories: 200, Servings: 4

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Souvlaki FAQ

Can I swap out the traditional meat in this Greek souvlaki recipe for something else? Absolutely! If you're feeling adventurous or just want to keep things interesting, you can use chicken, pork, beef, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. The best part about this easy and authentic souvlaki recipe is its flexibility. Just remember, the key to a delicious and tasty result is marinating your chosen ingredients well. That's one of the top tips for making your homemade souvlaki perfect every time!
What if I don't have a grill? Can I still make this quick and simple souvlaki at home? No grill? No problem! You can use a stovetop grill pan, broil in the oven, or even use a regular frying pan. The best Greek souvlaki recipe is all about those flavors, not just the grill marks. So, don't let a lack of equipment stop you from enjoying this easy and tasty dish. Just follow the same steps for how to make souvlaki, and you'll have a delicious meal in no time.
Can I make this recipe even healthier? Of course! For a lighter version of this authentic Greek favorite, use lean meats like chicken breast or turkey, and load up on fresh veggies. You can also serve your homemade souvlaki with whole wheat pita and a side of salad. These simple swaps keep the recipe quick, easy, and perfect for anyone looking for a healthy yet delicious meal.
What are some fun ways to change up the ingredients in my souvlaki? Feeling creative? Try adding bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms to your skewers for extra flavor and color. You can also experiment with different marinades-think lemon, garlic, oregano, and a splash of olive oil for that classic Greek taste. The best tip for a tasty and authentic souvlaki recipe is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and don't be afraid to mix things up!
How can I make my souvlaki extra juicy and flavorful? Here's a secret: marinate your ingredients for at least a few hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This simple step is the difference between good and perfect souvlaki! For the best results, use a combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for this delicious and easy upgrade.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You bet! Prepare your skewers and marinade in advance, then just cook them when you're ready. This makes it a quick and easy option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, the flavors get even better as they sit-talk about a tasty and authentic Greek souvlaki hack!
What's the best way to serve homemade souvlaki? Pile your perfectly cooked souvlaki onto warm pita bread, add a dollop of tzatziki, and sprinkle with fresh veggies. Or, go for a deconstructed plate with all your favorite ingredients. However you serve it, this simple and delicious recipe is sure to impress. And remember, the best souvlaki is the one you make your own!

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, souvlaki is a bit like that friend who loves a cozy blanket: it prefers to be wrapped up tight! The best way to keep your delicious Greek creation fresh is to pop it in an airtight container or wrap it snugly in foil before sending it off to the fridge. This easy step helps lock in all those mouthwatering flavors and keeps your healthy, protein-packed meal from mingling with the mysterious leftovers lurking in the back. Trust me, your souvlaki will thank you for this quick and simple act of culinary kindness.
Now, let us talk about shelf life, because nobody wants to play a guessing game with their dinner. Souvlaki is at its most delicious within two to three days of being cooked, so it is a good idea to enjoy your leftovers fast. If you are feeling adventurous and want to stretch out the Greek goodness, you can freeze it for up to two months, but remember, the best flavor and texture come from eating it sooner rather than later. A great recipe deserves to be savored while it is still at its peak, so do not let it languish in the fridge for too long!
Reheating souvlaki is almost as easy as making a quick phone call to your favorite Greek restaurant, but with the added bonus of bragging rights. For the best results, use an oven or a skillet to warm it up, which helps retain that delicious, slightly charred flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Microwaving is a fast option, but it can sometimes turn your healthy meal into a rubbery disappointment, so proceed with caution. Either way, a little extra care during reheating will make your leftovers taste almost as great as the day you made them!

Souvlaki Story

It was the summer I moved to a new city, and let me tell you, nothing says "welcome to adulthood" like realizing your best friend is now your GPS. My first week was a whirlwind of job interviews, lost keys, and a questionable haircut. One evening, after a particularly rough day that included spilling coffee on my only good shirt, I stumbled upon a little spot that promised a quick bite. I was skeptical, but hunger and curiosity are a great recipe for adventure. I ordered something I could barely pronounce, hoping for the best, and sat down, feeling like the universe owed me at least one small win.
To my surprise, the meal arrived fast, and with the first bite, I felt a wave of comfort that was almost suspiciously effective. It was as if the universe had pressed a reset button on my mood. Suddenly, the stress of the day melted away, replaced by a sense of calm and a delicious sense of hope. I laughed at myself for thinking that only complicated solutions could fix a bad day. Sometimes, the easy answer is the right one, especially when it comes with a side of joy and a napkin for your lap.
From that day on, whenever life threw me a curveball or a particularly confusing spreadsheet, I knew exactly where to go. The place became my little sanctuary, a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, there are healthy ways to find comfort. The experience taught me that sometimes, the best moments are the ones you do not plan, and the most memorable recipes for happiness are the ones that come to you when you least expect it. Plus, it is always good to have a spot where you can eat your feelings in public without judgment.

About Souvlaki Recipe

If you're on a quest for the best, most delicious, and authentic souvlaki recipe, you've just struck gold. This Greek classic is the answer to your "how to make a quick and easy dinner" prayers. With simple ingredients you probably already have at home, this homemade souvlaki is so tasty, you'll wonder why you ever bothered with takeout. The secret to the perfect souvlaki? It's all in the marinade-let those flavors mingle like they're at a Greek wedding, and you'll have a dish that's bursting with Mediterranean magic.
Let's talk about the ingredients: juicy chunks of meat (chicken, pork, or even lamb if you're feeling fancy), olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. That's it! This easy recipe is proof that you don't need a culinary degree or a passport to Greece to whip up something truly special. The best part? It's quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu backyard BBQs. Just skewer, grill, and serve-bonus points if you can pronounce "souvlaki" with a convincing Greek accent.
For those looking for tips on how to make this dish even more perfect, don't skip the resting time after marinating-let those flavors soak in for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you're a planner). Serve your homemade souvlaki with warm pita, a dollop of tzatziki, and a side of laughter. This recipe is so easy and tasty, you'll be crowned the hero of your next dinner party. Remember, the best Greek souvlaki is the one you make yourself-especially when you follow these simple steps and use the freshest ingredients. Opa!

Souvlaki Quick Mistake Fixes

If your souvlaki ends up too salty, it can feel like you just licked Poseidon's trident. The best way to avoid this is to remember that a little salt goes a long way, especially when you are using brined or marinated ingredients. If you find yourself in a sodium tsunami, a quick fix is to serve your souvlaki with a good heap of unsalted sides like plain rice or a healthy salad. This will help balance out the flavors and make your meal delicious again without needing to start from scratch. Remember, the best recipe is one that leaves your taste buds happy, not parched!
Overcooking souvlaki is a fast track to chewing on something that feels more like a sandal than a skewer. The trick is to keep a close eye on your grill or pan, because souvlaki cooks quickly and can go from juicy to dry in the blink of an eye. If you do end up with overcooked souvlaki, a great way to rescue it is to drizzle a little olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top. This easy move can add moisture and revive the flavors, making your meal taste fresh and delicious again.
Balancing flavors with last minute changes is a good skill to have, especially when your souvlaki is missing that wow factor. If things are tasting a bit bland, a quick sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of tangy yogurt sauce can work wonders. Sometimes, a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of spice is all it takes to turn a so-so dish into a great one. The best cooks know that a recipe is just a starting point, and a little creativity can make your souvlaki healthy, easy, and absolutely delicious every time!