Bring Greece to Your Table with Skewered Lamb
Savor the flavors of Greece with Arní Souvlákia, a classic dish of marinated lamb skewers that perfectly embodies Mediterranean cuisine.
Infused with olive oil, fresh lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs, these skewers are a deliciously versatile option, whether grilled over an open flame or broiled in your oven.
Paired with pita bread, tzatziki, and a crisp Greek salad, these lamb skewers are a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
Ideal for family dinners or festive outdoor gatherings, this recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.
Perfect for food lovers seeking a true culinary escape, Skewered Lamb is a must-try dish that celebrates the vibrant essence of Greek cooking
⦁ 2 tbsp olive oil
⦁ 3 tbsp lemon juice
⦁ ¼ tsp salt
⦁ ⅛ tsp black pepper
⦁ ¼ tsp dried marjoram
⦁ 2 lbs lamb, cut into 2-inch cubes
⦁ 1 lemon, cut into wedges
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a shallow dish, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and marjoram.
2. Marinate the Lamb: Add lamb cubes to the dish and stir to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the lamb onto 4 metal skewers. Place the skewers in a shallow broiling pan.
4. Cooking:
Grill Method:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (200°C/400°F).
Lightly oil the grill grates.
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes for even charring.
Baste with leftover marinade while grilling for extra juiciness.
Cook to medium-rare (60°C/140°F) or medium (65°C/150°F).
Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
Place skewers on a lined baking sheet and roast for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through.
Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for a charred finish.
Stovetop Method:
Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2 minutes until well-seared.
5. Serve: Remove lamb from skewers using a fork. Serve with lemon wedges.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients:
✔ Lamb Cut: Use leg of lamb or shoulder, as they are tender and flavorful when marinated and grilled. Avoid overly lean cuts to keep the meat juicy.
✔ Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the marinade and adds richness.
✔ Herbs & Spices: Traditional Greek flavors come from oregano, garlic, lemon, and thyme—use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
👩🍳 Preparation:
✔ Cutting the Meat: Dice lamb into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Avoid pieces that are too small, as they can dry out quickly.
✔ Marination: Marinate the lamb for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for deep flavor. Acidic ingredients like lemon juice tenderize the meat.
✔ Skewering: Use metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers (soak for 30 minutes to prevent burning). Alternate lamb with vegetables like bell peppers and onions for added flavor.
🍳 Cooking:
✔ Grill Temperature: Cook over medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F) for a perfect char while keeping the inside juicy.
✔ Turning the Skewers: Rotate skewers every 2–3 minutes to ensure even grilling. Lamb should be cooked to medium-rare (60°C/140°F) or medium (65°C/150°F) for the best texture.
✔ Basting: Brush with extra marinade while grilling to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
📦 Storage:
✔ Refrigerate Leftovers: Store grilled lamb skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
✔ Freezing: Marinated raw lamb can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
🍽 Serving:
✔ Pairing: Serve with pita bread, tzatziki, Greek salad, and lemon wedges for a full Mediterranean meal.
✔ Final Touch: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for an extra burst of flavor.