Introduction to Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers
Transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean with these Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers! Marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, then grilled to smoky perfection, each bite is juicy, tender, and bursting with traditional Greek flavor. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend feast or craving a quick, flavorful dinner, these skewers promise to bring sunshine and bold taste to your table—no passport required.
Quick & Easy Grilling – Minimal prep, fast cook time—ready in under 30 minutes!
Juicy, Tender Lamb – The marinade keeps it flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
Perfect for Sharing – Great as a party appetizer or centerpiece for a Greek-inspired meal.
Versatile Pairings – Serve with pita, tzatziki, salad, or grilled veggies for a complete spread.
Ingredients for Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers
To create these mouthwatering Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll gather:
Lamb shoulder: The star of the show! Tender and juicy, it’s perfect for skewering.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the meat.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and tenderizes the lamb.
Dried oregano: A classic herb in Greek cuisine, it brings a warm, earthy flavor.
Garlic powder: For that aromatic kick without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Onion powder: Adds depth and sweetness to the marinade.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Black pepper: A touch of heat to balance the dish.
Paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and a pop of color.
Wood or metal skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Feel free to get creative!
For a spicier twist, toss in some red pepper flakes.
You can also swap the lamb for chicken or beef if you prefer.
All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers
Creating these Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers is a straightforward process that will have your taste buds dancing.
Let’s break it down step by step, ensuring you get the most flavor out of every bite.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by grabbing a large bowl.
Combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Whisk everything together until it’s well blended.
This marinade is the secret to infusing your lamb with mouthwatering flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Lamb
Now, it’s time to add the lamb cubes to your marinade.
Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge.
Let it marinate for at least one hour, or up to four hours if you want that flavor to really penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the lamb is soaking up those delicious flavors, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
This step is crucial for achieving that perfect char on your skewers.
If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down until they’re covered in ash.
Step 4: Skewer the Lamb
Once the lamb is marinated, it’s time to skewer it.
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Thread the marinated lamb onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
This allows for even cooking and that beautiful char.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally.
You want the lamb to be browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill.
Let them rest for a few minutes; this helps the juices redistribute.
Serve your Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh side salad.
Enjoy the burst of flavors and the smiles around the table!
Tips for Success
Always marinate the lamb for at least one hour to maximize flavor.
Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning on the grill.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave space for even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F for medium-rare.
Let the skewers rest before serving to keep them juicy.
Equipment Needed
Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly for that smoky flavor.
Skewers: Use metal skewers for durability or wooden ones soaked in water.
Bowl: A large mixing bowl for marinating the lamb.
Whisk: To blend the marinade ingredients smoothly.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your lamb is cooked to perfection.
Variations
Spicy Souvlaki: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute lamb with firm tofu or marinated mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
Different Proteins: Try chicken, beef, or shrimp instead of lamb for variety.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your tzatziki sauce and pita bread are gluten-free for a safe option.
Serving Suggestions
Pita Bread: Warm up some pita bread for a delightful wrap around the skewers.
Tzatziki Sauce: Serve with a cool, creamy tzatziki for a refreshing dip.
Greek Salad: Pair with a vibrant Greek salad for a colorful plate.
Wine: Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or a light beer.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color.
FAQs about Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers
Can I use other meats for souvlaki? Absolutely! While lamb is traditional, you can use chicken, beef, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long should I marinate the lamb? For the best flavor, marinate the lamb for at least one hour. If you have more time, letting it sit for up to four hours will enhance the taste even further.
What should I serve with my souvlaki skewers? These skewers pair wonderfully with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad. You can also add grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the lamb when you’re ready to cook.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them on the grill or in the oven for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories.
The sizzle of the grill, the laughter of friends, and the joy of sharing delicious food all come together in this simple yet flavorful dish.
Each bite transports you to a sun-soaked Mediterranean terrace, where life is savored slowly.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner, these skewers are sure to impress.
So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and let the flavors of Greece bring a little magic to your table!
Delicious and flavorful Char-Grilled Greek Lamb Souvlaki Skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Wood or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk until well blended.
Add the lamb cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
If using wooden skewers, thread the marinated lamb onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. If using metal skewers, simply thread the lamb onto them.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is browned and cooked to your desired doneness (145°F for medium-rare).
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side salad.
Notes
For a spicier version, add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Serve the skewers with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a complete meal.