Description
This classic Greek Lamb Souvlaki recipe features tender, marinated lamb cubes grilled to perfection on skewers. Infused with garlic, lemon, oregano, and fresh herbs, these flavorful lamb skewers are perfect served with pita bread, tzatziki, and Greek salad for an authentic Mediterranean meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lamb Marinade
- 1.2 kg (2.4 lb) boneless lamb leg, fat trimmed, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes (~900 g / 1.8 lb after trimming)
- 1 tsp cooking or kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 5 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 3 fresh bay leaves, crushed by hand (or 2 dried bay leaves, kept whole)
- 1/3 cup white wine vinegar
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp cooking or kosher salt
For Serving
- 8 – 12 wooden or bamboo skewers
- 4 – 6 pita bread
- 1 batch tzatziki sauce
- Greek salad (chopped small for stuffing) or shredded lettuce and tomato slices
- Greek lemon rice (optional, for serving plates instead of wraps)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, crushed fresh bay leaves (or dried bay leaves), white wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Lamb Cubes: Add the trimmed lamb cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Assemble the Skewers: Remove the lamb from the marinade and thread the cubes evenly onto wooden or bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Lamb Souvlaki: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the lamb skewers for approximately 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach desired doneness and have a nice char. Remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving.
- Serve: Serve the lamb souvlaki hot with warm pita bread, a side of tzatziki, and Greek salad. Alternatively, present alongside Greek lemon rice for a plated meal. Enjoy the skewers wrapped or on the side as preferred.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the lamb for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Soak wooden or bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust grilling time based on skewer thickness and preferred doneness.
- Use fresh herbs if possible for a more vibrant taste.
- Tzatziki sauce can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
