Sizzling Souvlaki

Sizzling Souvlaki: A Greek Delight on Your Plate!

Transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked streets of Athens with this irresistible souvlaki recipe. Tender chunks of marinated meat, grilled to perfection and wrapped in warm pita bread, create a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners alike.

As you prepare this Greek classic, your kitchen will be filled with the intoxicating aromas of lemon, garlic, and herbs. The sizzle of the grill and the tantalizing scent of charred meat will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Souvlaki has been a staple of Greek cuisine for centuries, with its roots tracing back to ancient times. This protein-packed meal is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a balanced combination of lean meat, fresh vegetables, and wholesome carbohydrates. Pair it with a crisp Greek white wine or a refreshing glass of ouzo for an authentic Mediterranean experience.

Sizzling Souvlaki Recipe

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless pork shoulder or chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup olive oil

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 cloves garlic minced

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

6 pita breads

1 red onion thinly sliced

2 tomatoes diced

1 cucumber sliced

1 cup tzatziki sauce

Wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

2. Add the cubed meat to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

4. Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.

5. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

6. While the meat is grilling, warm the pita bread on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.

7. To serve, remove the meat from the skewers and place it on the warm pita bread.

8. Top with sliced red onion, diced tomatoes, and cucumber slices.

9. Drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce.

10. Fold the pita bread around the filling and serve immediately.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Thread the marinated meat onto skewers that fit in your air fryer basket.

3. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.

4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the skewers halfway through cooking time.

5. Check for doneness and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes if needed.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with firm tofu or vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
• You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade to create your own unique flavor profile.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Calories: 450

Fat: 18g

Protein: 35g

Carbohydrates: 40g

Fiber: 3g

Sodium: 780mg

Other Information

Prep time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)

Cook time: 15 minutes

Equipment used: Grill or air fryer, mixing bowl, wooden skewers

Estimated cost per serving: $3.50

Total cost: $21.00

In Conclusion, Sizzling Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a versatile and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Greece right to your dining table. With its perfect balance of tender meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using an air fryer, you can enjoy this Mediterranean classic any time of the year. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Greek cuisine.

Check out these recipes for your favorite ethnic dishes from around the world here!