Easy Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki: Juicy, Flavor-Packed Delight

Name: Easy Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 pound lamb shoulder or leg cubes (Choose tender cuts for juicy bites); 2 tablespoons olive oil (For tenderizing and flavor); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (Adds brightness); 2 cloves garlic (minced) (Essential for flavor); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Traditional Greek herb); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat) (Creamy base); 1 cup cucumber (grated and drained) (For freshness); 1 clove garlic (minced) (For a spicy kick); 2 tablespoons fresh dill or mint (chopped) (For brightness); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (Adds tanginess); 1 teaspoon salt; 4 pieces pita bread (For wrapping the souvlaki); 1 cup red onion slices (For crunch); 1 cup tomato wedges (For freshness); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (For garnish)

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something about biting into perfectly grilled Greek lamb souvlaki that instantly transports me to a sunny taverna by the Aegean Sea. The tender, marinated chunks of lamb paired with the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce create a harmony of flavors that’s both rustic and refined. After growing tired of the usual weeknight dinners, I stumbled upon this recipe—which turned out to be a crowd-pleaser every time I serve it. Easy to prepare yet bursting with Mediterranean zest, this Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki brings a homemade touch to your table that even the busiest home cook can master. Let me show you how to create this timeless dish that’s perfect for family meals, casual gatherings, or whenever you crave a burst of authentic Greek flavor.

Why is Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki irresistible?

Ultimate Flavor Fusion: The savory, herb-marinated lamb paired with refreshing, garlicky tzatziki creates an unbeatable taste experience. Effortless Prep: Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, perfect for busy cooks. Versatility: Serve with pita, salad, or rice for different meal vibes. Crowd Favorite: Bold, authentic flavors impress family and friends every time. Healthy & Balanced: Lean lamb and cucumber yogurt sauce make it as nourishing as it is delicious.

Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki Ingredients

For the Lamb Souvlaki Marinade

Lamb shoulder or leg cubes – Choose tender cuts for juicy, flavorful bites that soak up the marinade.
Olive oil – A must for tenderizing and adding that classic Mediterranean richness.
Lemon juice – Adds brightness and tenderizes the lamb beautifully.
Garlic cloves (minced) – Essential for that punch of savory aroma.
Dried oregano – The traditional herb that defines authentic Greek flavor.
Salt and black pepper – Season generously to enhance the lamb’s natural taste.

For the Tzatziki Sauce

Greek yogurt (full-fat) – Creamy base that makes the sauce cool and rich.
Cucumber (grated and drained) – Adds refreshing crunch and moisture without watering down the sauce.
Garlic (minced) – Provides a subtle spicy kick that complements the lamb.
Fresh dill or mint (chopped) – Bright herbs that elevate the freshness of this classic sauce.
Lemon juice – Balances the creaminess with a tangy zing.
Salt – Brings all flavors together for that perfect dip.

Serving Suggestions

Pita bread – Soft, warm pita is ideal for wrapping the souvlaki and scooping up tzatziki.
Red onion slices and tomato wedges – Add freshness and crunch to each bite.
Fresh parsley – Sprinkle as a finishing touch for color and flavor boost.

Every ingredient plays a key role in making this Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki an unforgettable feast that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.

How to Make Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki

Combine Marinating Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well blended and fragrant.
Marinate Lamb: Add lamb cubes to the bowl and toss gently to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

For the Tzatziki:

Prep Cucumber: Grate cucumber, sprinkle with salt, and let rest in a colander for 10 minutes. Then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel.
Mix Tzatziki Sauce: In a medium bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until creamy.

For the Grill:

Thread Lamb: Skewer marinated lamb cubes onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, spacing pieces evenly for consistent cooking.
Preheat Grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F). Brush grates with oil to prevent sticking and achieve nice sear marks.
Grill Souvlaki: Place skewers on the hot grill and cook 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes until edges are charred and meat reaches medium doneness.
Rest and Serve: Transfer skewers to a platter, loosely cover with foil, and let rest 5 minutes. Serve with warm pita, tzatziki, tomato wedges, onion slices, and fresh parsley.

Optional: Garnish with extra lemon wedges for a bright citrus finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki

Fridge: Keep leftover Greek lamb souvlaki in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store tzatziki separately to maintain its freshness.

Freezer: Freeze lamb skewers in a single layer for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw frozen souvlaki overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on a grill or stovetop until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Tzatziki Storage: Consume tzatziki within 3 days for best quality. If it separates, simply stir before serving with your delicious leftover souvlaki.

Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki Variations

Give your Greek lamb souvlaki a personal twist with these delightful variations!

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a fiery flavor boost. It’ll give your lamb an exciting kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy tzatziki.
Herb-Infused: Swap dried oregano for fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a modern twist. The fragrant notes will elevate your dish and impress anyone at your table.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute lamb with marinated halloumi or firm tofu for a hearty veggie version. Grill until golden for that delightful char while still providing the essence of souvlaki.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange zest into the marinade along with lemon juice for an unexpected brightness. The citrus infusion will dance on your palate with an aromatic, refreshing zing.
Flavorful Marinade: Try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to your marinade for a touch of tangy sophistication. This will create an additional layer of flavor that takes the dish to another level.
Cool Creaminess: Mix in some chopped fresh mint with your tzatziki to enhance its refreshing qualities. This herb elevates the dish into a refreshing summer delight that pairs perfectly with grilled meat.
Wrap It Up: Serve souvlaki in lettuce wraps instead of pita for a low-carb option. The crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch alongside the juicy lamb and creamy tzatziki.
Grilled Veggies: Alternate lamb cubes with colorful bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for extra volume and flavor. Grilled vegetables add a delightful twist, making it a more balanced feast.

Tips for the Best Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki

Marinate Thoroughly: Let the lamb soak in the marinade for at least 1 hour, ideally up to 4, to ensure tender, deeply flavored meat that sings of Mediterranean zest.
Drain the Cucumber Well: Squeeze out excess water from the grated cucumber to keep your tzatziki thick and creamy, avoiding a runny sauce.
Preheat the Grill: A hot grill is key to achieving those perfect sear marks and locking in juices—don’t skip this step for juicy, flavorful souvlaki.
Turn Skewers Often: Rotate the lamb every 2–3 minutes to cook evenly and prevent burning, ensuring perfectly charred edges without dryness.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the grilled lamb to rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices, making each bite succulent and tender.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill or mint in the tzatziki brightens the sauce and balances the rich lamb flavors for an authentic Greek finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the lamb cubes up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the marinade instructions, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. Additionally, the tzatziki sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, all you need to do is skewer and grill the marinated lamb for about 8–10 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade Greek flavors with minimal effort on your busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki?

Imagine the delightful aroma of grilled lamb mingling with refreshing accompaniments that transform a simple dish into a feast for the senses.

Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is perfect for wrapping grilled lamb and scooping up velvety tzatziki, enhancing every bite.
Greek Salad: Fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and pungent olives tossed in olive oil create a vibrant salad that contrasts the rich flavors of the souvlaki.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned zucchini and bell peppers roasted to perfection add a smoky element that beautifully complements the marinated lamb.
Chickpea Salad: A hearty, protein-packed chickpea salad with herbs and a lemony dressing provides a delightful crunch and balances the meal.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs adds a subtle nuttiness, making it an excellent base for the succulent souvlaki and tzatziki.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn brushed with butter offers a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory lamb, creating a whimsical twist on your plate.
Mint Lemonade: A cool, refreshing mint lemonade not only quenches your thirst but brightens the whole meal with its vibrant flavor.
Baklava: End on a sweet note with layers of flaky pastry, honey, and nuts; this dessert echoes the Greek roots of your souvlaki delight!

Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best lamb for Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki?
I recommend using lamb shoulder or leg cubes that are bright pink with minimal dark spots for freshness. Look for well-marbled meat as the fat adds juiciness and flavor when grilled. Avoid lamb with dark spots all over or a strong odor, which indicates it’s past its prime.

What’s the best way to store leftover souvlaki and tzatziki?
Store leftover lamb souvlaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the tzatziki sauce in a separate sealed container to preserve its creamy texture and fresh flavor. Always cool leftovers to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation and sogginess.

Can I freeze Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki?
Absolutely! To freeze, thread the marinated lamb cubes onto skewers, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. For thawing, place the skewers in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the grill or stovetop for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through. Keep tzatziki fresh by making a new batch upon serving, as it doesn’t freeze well.

What if my lamb turns out dry or tough?
Dry or tough lamb usually means it was overcooked or not marinated long enough. Make sure to marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally up to 4, to tenderize the meat. Grill on medium-high heat, turning every 2–3 minutes, and pull off the grill once the meat reaches medium doneness. Resting the meat for 5 minutes after grilling helps juices redistribute, keeping it juicy and tender.

Is tzatziki safe for people with dairy allergies or pets?
Tzatziki contains Greek yogurt, which is dairy and not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. As for pets, tzatziki should be avoided; ingredients like garlic and onion can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always enjoy your souvlaki and sides safely and keep these ingredients out of reach of your furry friends!