If you are craving something vibrant, juicy, and packed with authentic Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe is just what you need. Tender cubes of beef marinated in zesty lemon, fragrant oregano, and garlic are grilled to perfection and served alongside warm pita and cool, creamy tzatziki. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend get-together, this dish brings a burst of sunshine to your table while being surprisingly simple to prepare. Get ready to savor a delicious taste of Greece right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential—they work together to create the perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and that irresistible Mediterranean aroma that makes this Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe shine.
- 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful kebabs that grill beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and richness while helping the marinade coat the beef evenly.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brings a bright, zesty punch that tenderizes the meat and lifts the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: The classic herb that delivers that unmistakable Greek touch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Injects a pungent, savory depth that balances the freshness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone to complement the beef.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning essentials that enhance every bite.
- Wooden skewers: Soaked in water to prevent burning during grilling — perfect for threading the beef cubes.
- Pita bread: Soft, warm, and ideal for wrapping around your souvlaki for a handheld delight.
- Tzatziki sauce: Creamy cucumber and yogurt dip that cools and refreshes alongside the grilled meat.
- Chopped parsley: A fresh, colorful garnish that adds a touch of brightness.
How to Make Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This marinade blends bright, herbaceous, and savory notes that soak deep into the beef cubes, making every bite bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Toss the beef cubes in the marinade until fully coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This step is crucial for tenderizing the meat and infusing those classic Greek flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers and Grill
While the beef marinates, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat for a perfect sear. Thread the marinated beef tightly onto the skewers, which helps them cook evenly and makes for easy flipping.
Step 4: Grill the Beef
Grill the beef skewers for 3-4 minutes per side. Look for a lovely char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy—medium-rare is ideal to retain tenderness and flavor. Remember to let the meat rest for a few minutes after grilling to lock in those delicious juices.
How to Serve Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a wonderful garnish that adds a burst of green color and a fresh, slightly peppery note. Pair your souvlaki with a dollop of cool tzatziki sauce, which lends a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the smoky grilled beef beautifully.
Side Dishes
Traditional Greek sides like a crisp Greek salad loaded with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta provide a fresh textural contrast. Roasted vegetables seasoned with olive oil and herbs also make a fantastic accompaniment, keeping the meal balanced and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef souvlaki as a pita wrap tucked with chopped tomatoes, onion slices, and extra tzatziki, creating a handheld feast. Alternatively, turn it into a platter with rice or orzo, roasted veggies, and lemon wedges for a vibrant, restaurant-style experience at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover grilled beef souvlaki skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a tasty quick meal or snack.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe, it’s best to freeze the raw marinated beef cubes on the skewers first. Wrap them tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing cooked souvlaki, as the texture may suffer.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the beef skewers in the oven or on a grill pan over medium heat until heated through. Avoid the microwave when possible to maintain that grilled texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or tenderloin are preferred for their tenderness, you can also use ribeye or flank steak. Just make sure to cut the beef into evenly sized cubes for consistent cooking.
How long should I marinate the beef?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is essential to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat, but if you have more time, letting it rest for up to 2 hours is even better.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Definitely! A grill pan on the stove or even a broiler in your oven works well to achieve that charred, smoky flavor.
Is wooden skewers the only option?
Wooden skewers are ideal, but if you don’t have them, metal skewers work just as well and don’t require soaking.
What is a good vegetarian side to pair with Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe?
A Greek village salad or roasted eggplant with garlic and herbs makes a perfect vegetarian complement to the beef souvlaki.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe is a wonderful way to bring the sunshine and soul of Greek cuisine into your home kitchen. It’s simple, packed with vibrant flavors, and perfect for any occasion—whether a quick dinner or a festive gathering. Give it a try and watch your family and friends ask for seconds!
Print
Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
Greek Beef Souvlaki is a classic Mediterranean dish featuring tender cubes of beef marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. Served with warm pita bread and creamy tzatziki sauce, this flavorful meal captures the essence of Greek cuisine in a simple yet delicious way.
Ingredients
For the Marinade and Beef
- 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes, if using)
For Serving
- Pita bread, for serving
- Tzatziki sauce, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the beef: Add the beef cubes to the marinade and toss to coat all pieces evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse, or up to 2 hours for more intense taste.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough for searing the beef, which helps lock in juices and flavor.
- Skewer the beef: Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, packing them tightly to cook evenly on all sides.
- Grill the souvlaki: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. Aim for medium-rare doneness for the best texture and flavor, though you can cook longer if preferred.
- Rest the meat: Remove the skewers from the grill and let the beef rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices and ensure tenderness.
- Serve: Serve the grilled beef souvlaki with warm pita bread, a generous side of tzatziki sauce, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Optionally, accompany the dish with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Marinating the beef longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for medium-rare doneness at around 135°F (57°C).
- Substitute beef with lamb or chicken for different variations.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure the pita bread is gluten-free or serve with a salad instead.
