Lamb Souvlaki Recipe

Juicy Lamb Souvlaki Recipe: A Dreamy Greek Classic

Tender and aromatic lamb souvlaki promises a culinary adventure straight from greece’s vibrant kitchens.

Mediterranean flavors dance through each marinated morsel, inviting you to savor every bite.

Juicy meat chunks seasoned with fragrant herbs will transport your senses to sun-drenched coastal villages.

Succulent skewers promise an effortless meal that impresses without complicated techniques.

Marinating overnight ensures deep, rich flavor profiles that complement grilled vegetables perfectly.

Quick preparation means you can enjoy this classic dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s turn simple ingredients into a memorable feast that celebrates greek cooking traditions.

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  • Customize for Celebrations: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a special treat that brings people together with its irresistible blend of classic flavors and fun layered presentation.

Ingredients for Lamb Souvlaki

For the Main Protein:
  • Lamb: A tender and flavorful meat that absorbs the marinade beautifully and grills to a delicious golden brown.
For the Marinade:
  • Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and keeps the lamb moist during grilling.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat.
  • Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor to the lamb.
For the Seasoning:
  • Oregano, Salt, Pepper: Classic Greek seasonings that enhance the lamb's natural taste and add depth to the marinade.
  • Vinegar: Helps to tenderize the meat and balance the overall flavor profile.
For the Skewers and Serving:
  • Skewers: Essential for grilling the lamb in neat, manageable pieces.
  • Pita Bread: A traditional Greek accompaniment that complements the grilled lamb.
  • Tzatziki: A cool and tangy yogurt sauce that pairs perfectly with the warm grilled meat.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Adds freshness and crunch to the dish.

How to Make Lamb Souvlaki Easily

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, white wine vinegar, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Lamb

Toss lamb cubes in the marinade until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water. Thread marinated lamb cubes onto skewers.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Heat grill to medium-high for perfect searing.

Step 5: Grill the Lamb

Cook skewers 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked to your liking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve lamb souvlaki with warm pita, tzatziki, and fresh vegetables for a Mediterranean feast.

Helpful Notes for Lamb Souvlaki

  • Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  • Choose tender lamb cuts like leg or shoulder for the most succulent and flavorful souvlaki.
  • Marinate lamb for maximum flavor, preferably overnight, to ensure deep seasoning and tenderness.
  • For a gluten-free option, serve with lettuce wraps instead of traditional pita bread.
  • Allow grilled lamb to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help retain juices and improve overall taste and texture.

Flavor Twists for Lamb Souvlaki Fans

  • Greek-Style Herb Fusion: Replace oregano with a blend of rosemary, thyme, and mint for an aromatic Mediterranean herb profile.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Kick: Add red pepper flakes and smoked paprika to the marinade for a bold, fiery flavor experience.
  • Wine-Infused Marinade: Substitute part of the lemon juice with dry red wine to enhance the lamb's richness and depth.
  • Moroccan-Inspired Version: Incorporate ground cumin, coriander, and a touch of cinnamon for a North African spice transformation.

Best Ways to Serve Lamb Souvlaki

  • Greek Taverna Platter: Arrange grilled souvlaki skewers on a large wooden board with warm pita bread, creamy tzatziki, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. Drizzle extra olive oil and sprinkle fresh oregano for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
  • Picnic Perfect Souvlaki Wrap: Wrap grilled lamb in soft pita bread, add crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Roll tightly and slice diagonally for easy handheld enjoyment during outdoor meals.
  • Mediterranean Mezze Feast: Create a shared platter with souvlaki skewers as the centerpiece, surrounded by hummus, olives, feta cheese, roasted vegetables, and warm pita triangles. Invite friends to gather and enjoy a communal dining experience.

How to Store Lamb Souvlaki Properly

  • Place marinated lamb souvlaki skewers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent flavor loss and cross-contamination.
  • Wrap uncooked marinated lamb souvlaki skewers individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
  • Keep leftover grilled lamb souvlaki in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.

FAQs

  • What type of lamb works best for souvlaki?

Choose boneless leg of lamb or lamb shoulder. These cuts are tender, flavorful, and perfect for grilling. Trim excess fat before cutting into cubes.

  • How can I ensure my lamb stays tender during grilling?

Marinate the meat for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. The acid from lemon juice helps break down proteins, making the lamb more tender and infusing it with Mediterranean flavors.

  • Can I make souvlaki without a grill?

Yes! Use a cast-iron grill pan or broil in the oven. Preheat to high heat and cook lamb skewers, turning occasionally to achieve a nice char and even cooking.

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Lamb Souvlaki Recipe

Lamb Souvlaki Recipe


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4.6 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Greek lamb souvlaki offers tender marinated meat skewers with a perfect blend of Mediterranean herbs and spices. Grilled to juicy perfection, you’ll savor authentic flavors that transport palates straight to a charming Greek taverna.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 12 lbs lamb leg or shoulder (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Craft a zesty marinade by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in a mixing container.
  2. Immerse lamb cubes in the aromatic mixture, ensuring thorough coating. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or ideally overnight to enhance flavor penetration.
  3. Remove lamb from marinade and carefully thread meat onto pre-soaked wooden skewers, distributing pieces evenly.
  4. Ignite grill to medium-high temperature, approximately 400-450°F, creating ideal searing conditions.
  5. Position skewers on hot grill grates, rotating every 3-4 minutes to achieve uniform caramelization and cook lamb to desired doneness (typically 8-10 minutes for medium).
  6. Transfer grilled souvlaki to a serving platter, allowing meat to rest briefly for optimal juiciness.
  7. Accompany skewers with warm pita bread, cool tzatziki sauce, and a vibrant selection of fresh vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Notes

  • Marinate lamb for maximum flavor by allowing it to sit overnight, letting the herbs and acids tenderize the meat thoroughly.
  • Use wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling and ensure even cooking.
  • Opt for boneless leg of lamb or shoulder cuts with moderate fat content to guarantee juicy, flavorful souvlaki that doesn’t dry out.
  • Adjust grilling time based on meat thickness and desired doneness, checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfect results.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 335 kcal
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Fiber: 0.3 g
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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