Souvlaki: A Flavorful Greek Skewer Delight

Souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish made with tender cuts of meat marinated in a zesty, lemony mixture of olive oil and oregano. In this recipe, pork tenderloin is the star, providing a juicy and flavorful bite, complemented by onions and bell peppers. Serve it alongside rice pilaf and a fresh Greek salad for a complete and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Greek cuisine.

Quick Benefits

• High in Protein: Souvlaki is packed with protein from the pork tenderloin, making it a satisfying and filling dish.
• Low in Carbs: With just 4g of carbohydrates per serving, it fits well into a low-carb or keto diet.
• Rich in Vitamin C: The lemon juice and bell peppers add a healthy dose of Vitamin C, supporting your immune system.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday ingredients, making it easy to prepare without a lot of fuss.

Essential Ingredients

• Olive Oil (¼ cup): Adds richness and moisture to the marinade, giving the pork a flavorful base.
• Soy Sauce (¼ cup): Contributes to the savory depth of flavor and enhances the marinade.
• Lemon (1 medium, juiced): Provides a bright, citrusy tang that balances the richness of the meat.
• Garlic (3 cloves, crushed): Adds aromatic flavor and a hint of spice.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): A classic herb in Greek cuisine, bringing earthy and fragrant notes to the dish.
• Pork Tenderloin (3 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes): The main protein for the souvlaki, offering a tender and juicy texture when grilled.
• Yellow Onions (2 medium, cut into 1-inch pieces): Adds sweetness and texture when grilled.
• Green Bell Peppers (2 medium, cut into 1-inch pieces): Provides a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the rich pork.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large glass bowl, mix the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, crushed garlic, and dried oregano together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Pork and Vegetables: Add the pork cubes, onion pieces, and bell pepper pieces to the marinade, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.
4. Skewer the Meat and Vegetables: Remove the marinated pork and vegetables from the fridge. Thread the pork, onions, and bell peppers onto skewers, shaking off any excess marinade. Discard the remaining marinade.
5. Grill the Souvlaki: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill, turning frequently, for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink in the center. An instant-read thermometer should register at least 145°F (63°C) in the middle of the meat.
6. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and serve with rice pilaf and a Greek salad.

Health Benefits

• Supports Muscle Growth: The pork tenderloin is a great source of lean protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of lemon juice, bell peppers, and garlic provides a variety of vitamins (such as Vitamin C) and minerals like potassium, calcium, and iron.
• Low in Carbs: This dish is a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, as it has only 4g of carbs per serving.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice Pilaf: Serve your souvlaki with a side of rice pilaf for a comforting and filling meal.
• Greek Salad: Pair with a fresh Greek salad for a light, refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the souvlaki.
• Pita Bread: For a more casual meal, serve the souvlaki in pita bread wraps with tzatziki sauce.
• Grilled Vegetables: Complement the souvlaki with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or tomatoes for added flavor and color.

Creative Variations

• Swap the Pork for Chicken or Lamb: If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or lamb for a different flavor profile while keeping the marinade the same.
• Add More Veggies: Experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to add more variety to your skewers.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili to the marinade for a bit of heat.
• Marinate Overnight: For even more depth of flavor, marinate the pork and vegetables overnight.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftover souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you have leftover cooked souvlaki, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on a grill to maintain its flavor.
• Marinade Storage: If you have extra marinade, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and use it to marinate other meats or vegetables.

Pro Tips

• Ensure Even Cooking: When grilling, turn the skewers frequently to ensure that all sides of the meat cook evenly.
• Use Metal Skewers: Metal skewers are a great choice because they heat up and help cook the meat more evenly. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the doneness of the pork to avoid undercooking or overcooking it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pork tenderloin with chicken breast, lamb, or beef, depending on your preference. Adjust cooking times based on the meat you choose.

Can I grill the souvlaki indoors?
Yes, if you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the souvlaki in the oven. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

How can I tell when the pork is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption, followed by a 3-minute rest before serving.

Can I marinate the pork for longer than 3 hours?
Yes, marinating the pork for up to 24 hours will enhance the flavors even more, but be sure not to over-marinate to prevent the meat from becoming too soft.

Souvlaki is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. With its zesty marinade, tender meat, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a true taste of Greece that will impress your family and friends.

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