Souvalaki(Greek)
Souvalaki is a flavorful Greek grilled meat dish with a tangy lemon and herb marinade, perfect for outdoor grilling or flavorful dinners with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix oil, lemon juice, Greek oregano, salt, garlic powder, Accent, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Cut the meat into 1-inch cubes and place in the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Marinate the meat for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated meat onto skewers.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Serve hot, optionally with sides like pita, vegetables, or tzatziki.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, marinate the meat overnight if possible. If you don't have Greek oregano, Italian seasoning can be a suitable substitute. To add a bit of heat, consider including some crushed red pepper flakes. Ensure your skewers are soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. This souvlaki pairs beautifully with Zucchini And Tomatoes for a refreshing side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve souvlaki hot off the grill with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or tzatziki sauce for dipping. It also works well with sides like Alsatina Potato Salad for a complete meal. Feel free to add a fresh Greek salad for a refreshing crunch. This dish is perfect for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers on a grill or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the meat tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Souvalaki(Greek) contains roughly 509 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (62% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1755mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of pork, beef, lamb, or turkey?
Yes, chicken is a great alternative for souvlaki. Just ensure to adjust the marinating time to 30-60 minutes, as chicken can absorb flavors quickly. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What can I serve with souvlaki?
Souvlaki pairs excellently with tzatziki, a fresh Greek salad, or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes like Pastitso-Greek Lasagna or Alsatina Potato Salad.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the meat a day in advance and keep it stored in the refrigerator. Just thread the meat onto skewers and grill it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).