Transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of Greece with our delectable Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki. This classic Mediterranean dish is a perfect choice for special occasions, combining juicy marinated pork with creamy tzatziki sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Souvlaki:
- 1.5 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Warm pita bread
- Sliced red onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers
- Kalamata olives (optional)
Equipment:
- Grill or stovetop pan
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden skewers
- Whisk
Instructions:
Marinating the Pork:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork cubes in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate. The longer, the better for flavor.
Making Tzatziki Sauce:
- Prepare the Cucumber: After peeling and seeding the cucumber, grate it. Squeeze the grated cucumber to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, minced garlic, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, and refrigerate until serving.
Grilling the Pork:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the Skewers: Thread the marinated pork cubes onto the wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
- Grill the Pork: Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and has a slight char.
Serving:
- Warm the Pita: Heat the pita bread on the grill or in a pan for a minute on each side.
- Assemble the Souvlaki: Place a warm pita on a plate and top with the grilled pork. Add slices of red onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Optionally, serve with Kalamata olives.
- Enjoy Your Feast: Roll up the pita, and your Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki is ready to be enjoyed.
Tips:
- Marinating the pork for a few hours or even overnight will result in even more flavorful souvlaki.
- If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Customize your souvlaki with your favorite toppings like feta cheese or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition Facts:
Here’s the approximate nutrition information for one serving of Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki (assuming this recipe makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 35g
Note: The nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greece with our Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of the Mediterranean, this dish promises a delightful and memorable culinary experience. Opa!
