Name: Greek Beef Souvlaki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, freshly grated and excess water squeezed out; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped; 1/4 tsp salt

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Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our Greek Beef Souvlaki recipe. This classic dish features succulent marinated beef skewers grilled to juicy perfection, paired beautifully with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Each bite offers a delightful combination of tender meat, herbs, and creamy coolness that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked streets of Greece.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Mediterranean Flavor: The marinated beef absorbs aromatic herbs and spices, creating an unforgettable taste.
Quick and Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a main dish, in pita wraps, or as part of a mezze spread.
Healthy and Balanced: Loaded with protein and fresh cucumber yogurt sauce, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Great for Grilling Season: Perfect for outdoor cooking, bringing friends and family together over smoky, flavorful skewers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each plays a key role in bringing authentic Greek Beef Souvlaki to life, balancing flavor, texture, and color beautifully.

Beef sirloin or tenderloin: Choose lean, tender cuts for juicy, flavorful skewers that grill evenly.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade coat the beef thoroughly.
Lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that tenderizes the meat and adds freshness.
Garlic cloves: Mellow and fragrant, garlic layers in classic Mediterranean depth.
Dried oregano: Essential herb for authentic Greek taste and aromatic appeal.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the beef’s natural flavors.
Cucumber: Freshly grated for the cool and crisp tzatziki sauce accompaniment.
Greek yogurt: Creamy base for authentic tzatziki, balancing the spices perfectly.
Dill or mint: Adds a hint of herbaceousness to the sauce for extra freshness.

Variations for Greek Beef Souvlaki

One of the joys of Greek Beef Souvlaki is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re tweaking spices, adapting for dietary needs, or just mixing it up, these variations can inspire your next meal.

Chicken or lamb alternative: Substitute beef with chicken thighs or tender lamb for different but equally delicious flavors.
Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade for some heat.
Herb swap: Experiment with rosemary or thyme instead of oregano for a unique twist.
Greens and veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onions to the skewers for vibrant color and texture.
Vegan option: Use marinated seitan or tempeh skewers with vegan yogurt for a plant-based take.

Greek Beef Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki Sauce

How to Make Greek Beef Souvlaki

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This simple marinade infuses the beef with vibrant flavors and tenderizes it, ensuring every skewer delivers a juicy bite.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

Cut the beef into even bite-sized cubes and toss them into the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate.

Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meat marinates, grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel. Combine it with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill or mint, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and chill to enhance flavors.

Step 4: Skewer the Beef

Thread marinated beef pieces onto soaked wooden or metal skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to promote even cooking.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning frequently, until the beef is browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the skewers rest for a few minutes off the heat to retain their juices. Serve them with a generous dollop of tzatziki for an irresistible finish.

Pro Tips for Making Greek Beef Souvlaki

Choose the right cut: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin for juicy results and quicker cooking times.
Marinate sufficiently: Giving the beef at least an hour allows flavors to really infuse without overwhelming the meat.
Don’t overcrowd skewers: Leave spacing for heat circulation, ensuring even cooking and caramelization.
Rest meat after grilling: This locks in juices and keeps every bite tender.
Prepare tzatziki ahead: Making the sauce in advance enhances its flavor and simplifies plating.

How to Serve Greek Beef Souvlaki

Garnishes

Fresh herbs, extra lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese elevate the dish by adding brightness, creaminess, and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Traditional pairings like warm pita bread, Greek salad with tomatoes and olives, or a side of roasted potatoes complement the rich beef perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Greek Beef Souvlaki in pita wraps with fresh veggies and tzatziki, or create a Mediterranean platter with hummus, grilled vegetables, and olives for a festive spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place the cooled beef skewers and tzatziki in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The beef remains flavorful and the sauce keeps its creamy texture.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze raw marinated beef cubes skewered or in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.

Reheating

Reheat cooked souvlaki gently in a warm oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the beef, and serve fresh tzatziki on the side for maximum creaminess.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for Greek Beef Souvlaki?

Lean but tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin work best because they grill quickly and stay juicy without becoming tough.

Can I make Greek Beef Souvlaki indoors without a grill?

Absolutely! Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop to achieve great searing and flavor.

How long should I marinate the beef?

A minimum of 1 hour is necessary for good flavor, but marinating up to 4 hours enhances tenderness and depth without overpowering the meat.

Is tzatziki sauce vegan-friendly?

Traditional tzatziki contains Greek yogurt, but you can make a vegan version using dairy-free yogurt alternatives combined with cucumber and herbs.

Can Greek Beef Souvlaki be made ahead for parties?

Yes! You can prepare the skewers and marinade ahead, then grill just before serving to keep them fresh and flavorful for guests.

Final Thoughts

Greek Beef Souvlaki is a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dish that brings the magic of Mediterranean cooking straight to your table. Whether you’re grilling for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy every craving for authentic tastes made easy. Give it a try, and enjoy the incredible balance of savory beef and refreshing tzatziki—your new favorite weeknight or weekend meal awaits!