Greek Pork Souvlaki: Flavored with Rosemary and Lemon for Perfect Skewers

Greek Pork Souvlaki is a flavorful and aromatic dish made with tender pork, infused with the delightful tastes of rosemary, lemon, and oregano. These skewers are a must-try for anyone craving authentic Greek flavors and an easy-to-make, satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or making a quick dinner, Greek souvlaki offers a deliciously smoky and herbaceous experience everyone will love!

What Is Greek Pork Souvlaki?

Souvlaki is one of Greece’s most beloved dishes, consisting of small pieces of meat (typically pork, chicken, or lamb) marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon, herbs, and spices, then skewered and grilled. This dish is often served with pita bread, salad, or even in a wrap, making it a versatile and portable meal. The key to the perfect souvlaki is in the marinade, which imparts a rich, herby flavor to the meat.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Authentic Greek Flavor: The combination of rosemary, lemon, and oregano creates a bright, herby, and refreshing marinade that infuses the pork perfectly.
• Quick and Easy: With just 4 simple steps, this dish can be prepared and cooked in under an hour, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
• Healthy and Lean: Using pork loin ensures that the skewers remain tender while keeping the dish light and nutritious.
• Customizable: You can easily swap pork for chicken or lamb if you prefer a different protein.

Cooking Tips

Here are some tips to help you make perfect Greek souvlaki every time:

• Marinate the Meat: Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat. For even more flavor, marinate for a few hours or overnight.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and mint will elevate the flavor of your souvlaki. However, if fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs work just fine.
• Grill Over Medium Heat: Cooking the skewers over medium heat ensures that the meat is cooked through without burning on the outside.
• Turn the Skewers Regularly: Make sure to turn the skewers every 5 minutes to get an even grill on all sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork for Souvlaki?

Yes! You can substitute the pork loin with boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast. Chicken will cook a little faster than pork, so adjust the grilling time accordingly.

Can I Grill Souvlaki on an Outdoor Grill?

Absolutely! Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat and follow the same cooking instructions. Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent the skewers from sticking.

How Can I Make Souvlaki Spicier?

If you prefer a spicier souvlaki, you can add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I Make Souvlaki Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the skewers and marinate the meat ahead of time. Simply store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

How Do I Serve Souvlaki?

Souvlaki can be served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, a Greek salad, or even over a bed of rice. For a complete Greek meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or fries.

How to Store

Leftover souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

How to Freeze

If you want to freeze souvlaki, it's best to freeze the uncooked, marinated meat before grilling. After skewering the meat, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and grill as usual.

How To Make Pork Souvlaki

In a large bowl, combine the pork pieces with rosemary, salt, dry oregano, mint, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. Mix everything well and let it marinate for 30 minutes.

After the marinating time, thread the pieces of pork onto wooden skewers.

Heat a grill pan over medium heat and transfer the skewers to the pan. Grill for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides.

Once the souvlaki is cooked through and slightly charred, serve the skewers on a plate and enjoy with your favorite sides!