Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
If you’ve ever craved the taste of a bustling Greek taverna right in your own kitchen, then this Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy cubes of marinated chuck roast soak up a vibrant blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fragrant Greek seasoning, then char to perfection on the grill. The result is tender, flavorful beef skewers bursting with Mediterranean sunshine, perfect for your next gathering or a simple weeknight treat. This recipe brings that authentic souvlaki experience straight to your table, making it an absolute staple for anyone wanting to savor the bold flavors of Greece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe is all about simplicity and quality. Each ingredient is essential, working together to build those bright, zesty, and smoky flavors that define souvlaki. From the robust olive oil that adds richness to the fresh garlic that packs a punch, every part contributes texture, color, or an unforgettable flavor boost.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a luscious base for the marinade and helps keep the beef tender and juicy while grilling.
- Lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon): Adds a fresh, tangy brightness that balances the richness of the beef perfectly.
- Garlic cloves (4, finely minced): Infuses a bold, aromatic depth that’s signature to Greek cuisine.
- Greek seasoning (2 tablespoons): A savory blend of herbs and spices that brings authentic Mediterranean flair.
- Chuck roast (1 1/2 pounds, trimmed and cubed): The ideal beef cut for souvlaki due to its perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a splash of fresh greenery and subtle herbaceous notes at the end.
How to Make Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and Greek seasoning in a large bowl. This simple yet powerful marinade is the backbone of the flavor, coating the beef cubes in a zesty, aromatic bath that softens and infuses them.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Add the cubed chuck roast to the marinade and toss everything together until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge for at least 2 hours—overnight if you can wait—for the full depth of flavor to develop. Patience here truly pays off.
Step 3: Skewer the Beef
Once marinated, thread the beef cubes onto skewers. This step is not just about ease of cooking; it’s about capturing that classic souvlaki vibe, where each sizzling skewer carries concentrated deliciousness.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. Watch as the beef browns beautifully and develops a gorgeous char, delivering juicy bites with smoky notes every time.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once off the grill, sprinkle fresh parsley over the souvlaki for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm straight from the skewers or slide the cubes off for a family-style feast.
How to Serve Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic, lending a bright herbal contrast that lifts the richness of the beef. You can also add lemon wedges on the side for those who want an extra citrusy kick. A drizzle of tzatziki sauce complements the savory meat with creamy cooling notes.
Side Dishes
Greek Beef Souvlaki pairs beautifully with simple sides such as warm pita bread, a crisp Greek salad with cucumbers and tomatoes, or even roasted vegetables. These sides add textural balance and keep the meal light and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving the souvlaki meat stuffed inside pita wraps with sliced onions, tomatoes, and a dollop of homemade yogurt sauce. Alternatively, present the beef cubes on a platter alongside grilled veggies and dips for a festive, family-style spread everyone can share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Beef Souvlaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making for delicious next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to save the deliciousness for longer, freeze the cooked beef cubes in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate portions for easy thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the souvlaki meat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain juiciness and avoid drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal due to its flavor and tenderness, sirloin or ribeye cubes can also work well. Just make sure the pieces are uniform for even cooking.
How long should I marinate the beef?
At minimum, 2 hours of marinating allows the flavors to infuse nicely, but for the best taste, marinate overnight. This really helps tenderize the meat and boosts every bite with rich Mediterranean flavors.
Can I grill this without skewers?
Yes, you can cook the marinated beef cubes on a grill pan or directly on a grill rack. Using skewers makes turning easier and gives that traditional look, but either method works fine.
Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue party?
Definitely! Greek Beef Souvlaki is perfect for gatherings because it’s easy to prepare ahead, grill quickly, and serve as finger food. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.
What can I serve instead of parsley for garnish?
If you’re out of fresh parsley, chopped fresh mint or oregano are fantastic alternatives. Both herbs contribute fresh flavors that complement the grilled beef beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Making this Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe is like inviting the warm spirit of Greece right to your kitchen table. It’s straightforward, packed with vibrant flavors, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe promises to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try and see how easily you can transform simple ingredients into a delicious Mediterranean feast.
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Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Greek Beef Souvlaki recipe features tender, marinated chuck roast cubes grilled to perfection with a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and traditional Greek seasoning. Perfect for a flavorful and authentic Mediterranean meal, this dish is simple to prepare and delivers a juicy, savory bite every time.
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning
Main:
- 1 1/2 pounds (680 g) chuck roast, trimmed and cubed into bite-sized pieces
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Greek seasoning until fully combined to create the flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the beef: Add the cubed chuck roast pieces into the bowl with the marinade, tossing thoroughly to ensure all the beef is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let flavors develop, or overnight for optimal taste and tenderness.
- Assemble the skewers: Once marinated, thread the beef cubes evenly onto skewers, packing them comfortably but not too tightly to allow even cooking.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it reaches the ideal temperature to sear the beef and lock in juices.
- Grill the souvlaki: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally to achieve an even char and your desired level of doneness.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the beef skewers from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides or pita bread.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the beef overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Use metal or soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning on the grill.
- Chuck roast is ideal for this recipe due to its marbling, but sirloin or flank steak can also be used.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Ensure the grill is properly preheated to avoid sticking and achieve a good sear.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
