This Traditional Pork Souvlaki comes together in about 30 minutes and is grilled to perfection for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that your family will love! Whether it’s a cozy meal at home or a fun backyard BBQ, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredient Breakdown
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 pound of pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Ingredient Insights
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is not only lean and tasty but also cooks quickly, making it a perfect choice for souvlaki. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, pork shoulder is another great option, just allow a bit more cooking time.
Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: These ingredients create a fabulous marinade that not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat. You can adjust the amount of lemon juice for a more zesty kick or even add some red wine vinegar for a tangy flavor.
Garlic and Oregano: These are traditional flavors in Greek cuisine, and they truly elevate this dish. Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary if you prefer.
Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Let’s Get Cooking!
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process!
In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Stir it well and breathe in that aromatic goodness as the flavors start to meld!
Next, add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Make sure each piece is well covered – this is what will make them flavorful and juicy! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight. Trust me, the longer it marinates, the better!
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
While it’s heating up, thread the marinated pork onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred. The amazing smell wafting off your grill will have everyone running to the yard!
Serve your souvlaki with pita bread and tzatziki sauce for a truly authentic experience. Or, go wild and enjoy them with a side of roasted veggies or a refreshing Greek salad!
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites!
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, providing a satisfying meal without taking up your whole evening.
Comfort Food
Souvlaki is loaded with tons of flavor and will surely satisfy any comfort food cravings you might have. It’s also a fun family meal, who doesn’t enjoy a good skewer?
Customizable
One of the best features of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out the pork for chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Make-Ahead Friendly
The marinade can be prepared in advance, and the skewers can even be assembled ahead of time. Just pop them on the grill when you’re ready to eat!
Minimal Cleanup Required
With just a few bowls and skewers, clean-up is a breeze. You’ll be free to enjoy more time with your family and less time scrubbing pots!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, pita bread and tzatziki are must-haves. But why stop there? Here are a few other ways to enjoy your souvlaki:
- Pair with Mediterranean-inspired sides like couscous or quinoa salads.
- Serve with a light and fresh Greek salad for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy with some marinated olives and feta for added flavor on the side.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: The best method is to just toss them on the skillet with a little olive oil to revive their juiciness. You can also pop them in the microwave, but be cautious not to dry them out.
- Freezer Friendly: You can freeze the marinated pork before grilling for an easy go-to meal later. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling!
This Traditional Pork Souvlaki is more than just a recipe; it’s a gateway to enjoying Greek culinary culture right in your own kitchen. With its fresh flavors, tender meat, and customizable nature, it’s bound to become one of your family’s favorites as well.
Remember to experiment and have fun with it! And hey, if the weather isn’t cooperating for grilling, you can always try broiling them in the oven or using an indoor grill pan. So get ready to impress your family with this deliciously easy dish!
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Traditional Pork Souvlaki
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Stir well.
- Add the pork cubes to the marinade and toss to coat well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated pork onto the skewers, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the pork is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Serve your souvlaki with pita bread and tzatziki sauce, or alongside roasted veggies or a refreshing Greek salad.