There is something truly magical about the Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. Tender cubes of beef marinated in lemon, oregano, garlic, and cumin come together on skewers grilled to perfection, delivering a juicy, aromatic experience that feels both rustic and refined. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy authentic Greek street food any night of the week, with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe is easier than you think because the ingredients are simple, fresh, and come together beautifully. Each item plays its part to balance bright citrus notes, earthy herbs, and savory spices for a truly mouthwatering meal.
- Beef sirloin or tenderloin, 1 lb: Use tender cuts cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- Olive oil, 3 tablespoons: This adds moisture and richness while helping to carry the flavors in the marinade.
- Lemon juice, 2 tablespoons: The fresh acidity brightens the beef and tenderizes it gently.
- Dried oregano, 2 teaspoons: A classic Greek herb that infuses the dish with a warm, herby aroma.
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Adds a pungent, savory depth that enhances the marinade.
- Ground cumin, 1 teaspoon: Brings a subtle earthiness and hints of smoky spice.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the beef and herbs.
- Wooden skewers: Soak in water for 30 minutes if using, to prevent burning on the grill.
- Pita bread: To serve alongside or wrap your souvlaki for that authentic Greek touch.
- Tzatziki sauce: Creamy, cooling yogurt sauce perfect for balancing the savory meat.
- Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish that ties everything together.
How to Make Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. This marinade is the soul of the dish, infusing each beef cube with layers of bright, herbal, and savory notes that are so irresistible.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Add the 1-inch beef cubes to the marinade and toss until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to soak deeply into the meat for the best taste and tenderness.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Getting the temperature just right ensures the beef sears perfectly on the outside while remaining juicy inside, creating that signature souvlaki texture we all love.
Step 4: Thread the Beef onto Skewers
Carefully thread the marinated beef cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers. Pack them tightly but leave a little space for even cooking, which helps give that tender yet slightly charred bite that makes Greek souvlaki so special.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Grill the beef skewers for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. For this recipe, medium-rare offers an ideal balance of juiciness and flavor but feel free to go to your liking.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once off the grill, let the skewers rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute. This keeps the beef succulent and ready to serve alongside warm pita, creamy tzatziki, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
How to Serve Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of chopped parsley sprinkled over the skewers adds a fresh, lively pop of color and flavor that complements the grilled beef and bright marinade perfectly.
Side Dishes
Greek Beef Souvlaki shines alongside classic sides like creamy tzatziki sauce, soft pita bread, a crisp Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and olives, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn your souvlaki into wraps using warmed pita, layering in tzatziki, sliced onions, and fresh tomatoes. You can also serve the beef cubes on a platter with skewers removed, drizzled with extra lemon and herbs for family-style sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen with time, making for delicious next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked souvlaki skewers by wrapping them tightly in foil or placing them in freezer-safe bags. They will keep well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Reheat souvlaki gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to retain that lovely grilled texture.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of beef for this Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or tenderloin are ideal for tenderness, you can also use ribeye or flank steak, just be sure to slice them into uniform cubes for even cooking.
How long should I marinate the beef for the best flavor?
At least 30 minutes is sufficient to impart great flavor, but marinating up to 2 hours will deepen the taste and tenderness without overpowering the beef.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook souvlaki indoors?
Definitely! A grill pan or a broiler can replicate the grilling effect at home, giving you those delightful charred edges and juicy interior that make this dish so special.
Is it necessary to soak the wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning during grilling, helping keep your souvlaki safe and flavorful.
Can I make the Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! The beef marinade itself is dairy-free, so simply omit tzatziki or substitute it with a dairy-free yogurt-based sauce to keep it friendly for all diets.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a burst of authentic Mediterranean flavor to their meals. This dish is such a joy to prepare and share because it’s fresh, vibrant, and perfectly satisfying. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these juicy beef skewers will undoubtedly become a fast favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
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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 flavorful and easy-to-make grilled beef dish featuring tender sirloin or tenderloin cubes marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and cumin. Perfectly grilled to medium-rare, the beef is served on wooden skewers alongside warm pita bread, creamy tzatziki sauce, and fresh parsley, making a delightful and authentic Greek meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 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
Additional Ingredients
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes, if using)
- Pita bread, for serving
- Tzatziki sauce, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until evenly blended to form a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Beef: Add the beef cubes to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse into the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure a good sear on the beef skewers.
- Skewer the Beef: Thread the marinated beef cubes tightly onto the soaked wooden skewers, evenly spacing them but packed close enough to stay secure while grilling.
- Grill the Beef Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully until the beef is browned and cooked to your preferred level of doneness, ideally medium-rare for optimal tenderness and juiciness.
- Rest the Meat: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute within the beef.
- Serve: Serve the beef souvlaki hot with warm pita bread, a side of refreshing tzatziki sauce, and a garnish of chopped fresh parsley for a delicious and authentic Greek meal experience.
- Optional Accompaniments: Enjoy with a Greek salad or roasted vegetables to complete your meal.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives.
- Marinate the beef longer (up to 2 hours) for deeper flavor but avoid marinating overnight to prevent texture breakdown.
- Ensure the grill is hot before placing skewers to get a good sizzle and proper sear.
