Most Popular Greek Foods: How To Make Greek Souvlaki (Recipe Guide)

Our full guide on How To Make Homemade Souvlaki one of the most popular dishes in Greece.

Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish consisting of small pieces of marinated meat grilled on skewers. It’s typically served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables.

Here’s a detailed recipe guide, along with tips and calorie information.

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How to Make Souvlaki

Souvlaki Recipe Ingredients

For the Souvlaki:

1 lb pork tenderloin or chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers
For Serving:

Pita bread
Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced red onions
Lettuce leaves
Lemon wedges
For Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

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Step By Step How to Make Souvlaki

Marinate the Meat

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the pork or chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Skewer and Grill the Meat

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers. Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.

Warm the Pita Bread

Warm the pita bread on the grill or in a skillet until soft and pliable.

Assemble and Serve

Place the grilled souvlaki on a platter and serve with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, lettuce, and lemon wedges. Each person can assemble their own souvlaki wraps with the toppings of their choice.

Tips To Make Souvlaki

Pork tenderloin and chicken breast are traditional, but you can also use lamb or beef. For the best flavor, marinate the meat overnight. The acid in the lemon juice helps tenderize the meat.

Ensure your grill or grill pan is hot before adding the skewers to achieve a good sear and prevent sticking. Squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated cucumber to avoid a watery sauce. Serve immediately while the meat is hot and the pita is warm for the best taste and texture.

How Many Calories Have Souvlaki

Pork Tenderloin or Chicken Breast (1 lb): Approximately 600 calories
Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Approximately 480 calories
Pita Bread (4 pieces): Approximately 800 calories (200 calories per pita)
Tzatziki Sauce: Approximately 200 calories
Greek Yogurt (1 cup): 130 calories
Cucumber (1): 15 calories
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): 120 calories
Lemon Juice, Garlic, Dill: Negligible calories

Total Calories for the Batch: Approximately 2,080 calories

Calories per Serving: Approximately 520 calories