Authentic Pork Souvlaki with Homemade Tzatziki: The Ultimate Greek Summer Grilling Recipe

Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki is not just a meal; it’s an experience, transporting your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece! This incredible dish features succulent pork tenderloin, expertly marinated in a vibrant Mediterranean blend, then grilled to juicy perfection. It’s traditionally served with warm pita bread, a generous dollop of creamy, cooling tzatziki, and a fresh, crisp Greek salad. This combination is an absolute showstopper, making it the ideal centerpiece for any summer gathering or a delightful weeknight family dinner. Prepare to impress your guests and savor the flavors of the Aegean!

Our journey to Greece last year left an indelible mark on us, particularly through its extraordinary food. The freshness, the profound flavors, and the sheer joy of Greek cuisine are simply unparalleled. Among the many culinary delights we savored, Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki quickly became a favorite. It was ubiquitous, found everywhere from bustling street-side vendors offering quick, satisfying bites to elegant sit-down restaurants serving refined versions of this classic. Each encounter with souvlaki only deepened our appreciation for its simple yet powerful deliciousness.

There’s an irresistible magic in the interplay of the smoky, grilled pork, the velvety, refreshing tzatziki sauce, and the bright tang of a traditional Greek salad. This symphony of textures and tastes truly makes your palate sing! Inspired by those unforgettable meals abroad, I dedicated myself to recreating our favorite Greek dishes back home. This authentic Pork Souvlaki recipe quickly rose to the top of our family’s meal rotation. If you’re a fan of chicken, you might also enjoy my highly popular Chicken Souvlaki recipe, which offers a similar delightful experience.

This recipe shines as the perfect main course during the warmer months. It’s an effortlessly easy meal that sacrifices absolutely nothing in terms of flavor, making dinner planning a breeze. At its heart is tender pork tenderloin, a cut renowned for its lean profile and quick cooking time. Marinated in a zesty, herb-packed Mediterranean concoction, the pork is then grilled to achieve a supremely juicy, incredibly flavorful result. The marinade not only infuses the meat with a burst of traditional Greek spices but also helps tenderize it, ensuring every bite is a tender delight.

Beyond souvlaki, the summer months often inspire me to fire up the grill for other fantastic pork dishes. Some of our favorites include these mouthwatering Pork Burgers, bursting with flavor, and these delightfully sweet and savory Grilled Hawaiian Pork Chops. For those seeking heartier options year-round, you might also love this comforting Easy Pork Chili, the perfectly seared Cast Iron Pork Tenderloin, or the wonderfully convenient Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin. Each of these recipes highlights the versatility and deliciousness of pork in various culinary styles.

Pork Gyros vs. Pork Souvlaki: Understanding the Delicious Distinctions

During my travels through Greece, I indulged in both gyros and souvlaki extensively, and honestly, I adore them equally! While both are iconic Greek meat dishes, there are distinct differences in their preparation and presentation. Understanding these nuances will help you appreciate the rich culinary heritage of Greece even more.

Gyros are famously made by thinly slicing meat – typically pork or chicken, though beef and lamb are also used – that has been slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. This method results in incredibly tender, flavorful meat with beautifully crispy edges. Gyros are most commonly served in warm pita bread, wrapped with fresh tomatoes, onions, a sprinkle of paprika, and a generous slathering of tzatziki. You’ll also find gyros served on a platter, often accompanied by roasted vegetables, crispy Greek potatoes or fries, and extra tzatziki for dipping.

Souvlaki, on the other hand, refers to small pieces of meat (like chicken or pork, and sometimes lamb or beef) that are marinated and then grilled on skewers. The name “souvlaki” itself means “skewer.” The grilling process imparts a wonderful smoky char and seals in the marinade’s flavors, resulting in juicy, tender chunks of meat. Like gyros, souvlaki is often served wrapped in a warm pita with similar accompaniments, or presented on a platter with fresh salads, vegetables, and potatoes. While both offer a taste of authentic Greek flavor, souvlaki’s grilled, cubed meat provides a distinct texture and experience.

Essential Ingredients for Your Greek Feast

To create this irresistible Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this article.

• Pork Tenderloin: This lean and naturally tender cut of pork is ideal for souvlaki. Our Mediterranean marinade works wonders, further tenderizing the meat and infusing it with incredible flavor. When grilled, it transforms into succulent, juicy pieces that pair perfectly with pita, tzatziki, and a fresh Greek salad.
• The Mediterranean Marinade: The secret to truly flavorful souvlaki lies in its marinade. This simple yet potent blend is a flavor powerhouse! It combines the bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon juice, the rich fruitiness of extra virgin olive oil, the pungent kick of minced garlic cloves, the subtle tang of red wine vinegar, and the aromatic depth of dried oregano and thyme. You can opt for dried spices for convenience, or elevate the flavor further with fresh oregano and fresh thyme if available.
• Homemade Tzatziki: No Greek meal is complete without this creamy, cooling sauce. Tzatziki is the ultimate complement to grilled meats, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich pork. Our homemade version uses thick Greek yogurt (full-fat for richness, or low-fat/no-fat for a lighter option), minced garlic, white wine vinegar for a gentle tang, fresh dill for herbaceous notes, and finely grated cucumber, which adds a wonderful freshness and texture.
• Vibrant Greek Salad: A truly authentic Greek dining experience demands a fresh, traditional Greek salad. It brings a vital crunch, acidity, and herbaceousness to balance the meal. We love piling the salad directly on top of the pork skewers and pita for an all-in-one delicious bite.

Crafting Perfect Pork Souvlaki: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating delicious Pork Souvlaki at home is simpler than you might think! Follow these steps for tender, flavorful skewers that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin. Begin by carefully trimming any silver skin or excess fat from your pork tenderloin. Silver skin is a tough membrane that won’t break down during cooking, so removing it ensures a more tender bite. Once trimmed, cut the pork tenderloin into uniform 1-inch cubes. Uniform pieces are key to even cooking.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Flavorful Marinade. In a small bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: fresh lemon juice, rich extra virgin olive oil, pungent minced garlic, tangy red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried thyme, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. Place the cubed pork tenderloin into a large Ziploc bag or a spacious glass bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the pork, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and gently toss to distribute the marinade evenly. Refrigerate the marinated pork for at least two hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply and tenderize the meat. For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate it for up to 8 hours.

Step 3: Prepare Your Skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes before grilling. This crucial step prevents them from burning on the hot grill. If you have metal skewers, no soaking is required.

Step 4: Thread the Pork. Once the pork has marinated, it’s time to assemble your skewers. Remove the pork from the refrigerator, discard the excess marinade. Arrange the pork cubes onto your prepared wooden or metal skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Don’t overcrowd them! A large platter or wooden cutting board works perfectly for this task.

Step 5: Master the Tzatziki and Greek Salad. While your grill preheats, take this opportunity to prepare your fresh accompaniments. For the Tzatziki, simply combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh dill, grated cucumber, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well-blended. Cover and refrigerate until serving to allow the flavors to meld. For the Greek salad, gently toss diced English cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh mint, fresh parsley, dried oregano, and crumbled feta cheese in a medium mixing bowl. In a separate small jar or container, whisk together lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil for the dressing, then pour over the salad and toss to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 6: Grill to Perfection. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork skewers on the grill. Grill the pork for approximately 8-12 minutes, turning them every couple of minutes, until they are beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145 degrees F (63 degrees C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.

Step 7: Rest and Serve. Once cooked, remove the pork skewers from the grill and let them rest on a clean cutting board or platter for about 3 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Serve your sensational pork souvlaki skewers immediately with warm pita bread, the cool and creamy homemade tzatziki, and the vibrant Greek salad.

Elevate Your Meal: Perfect Pairings for Pork Souvlaki

While our Pork Souvlaki recipe is undeniably delicious when paired with homemade tzatziki and a fresh Greek salad served on a warm pita, there are countless other delightful side dishes that can complement this Mediterranean masterpiece. Expanding your side dish options allows for variety and caters to different tastes, making every meal a unique culinary adventure.

• Hummus: Creamy, flavorful hummus is always a fantastic addition to grilled meats. Its earthy notes and smooth texture perfectly balance the zesty pork. Try this classic version for a traditional experience, explore a vibrant roasted red pepper hummus for a touch of sweetness, or ignite your palate with a spicy jalapeño hummus for an exciting kick.
• Salads: Light and refreshing side salads are a natural choice to accompany the rich flavors of grilled pork. Beyond the traditional Greek salad, consider options like this refreshing Cauliflower Tabbouleh, which offers a grain-free twist, a classic Greek Tabbouleh packed with herbs, or this crisp Persian Tomato Cucumber Salad for a different flavor profile.
• Potatoes: Hearty potato dishes provide a satisfying foundation for your souvlaki feast. For a spicy kick, try Spicy Lebanese Potatoes. If you prefer a brighter, herbaceous flavor, these Cilantro Lemon Potatoes are an excellent choice. And for a delightfully crispy and tender option, our Smashed Potatoes offer an irresistible texture.

Tried this recipe? Leave a star rating and comment below! Subscribe to my newsletter or follow me on
Facebook,
Instagram, or
Pinterest for the latest.

Tap to rate the recipe

5 from 1 vote

Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki

By
Julia Jolliff

Pork Souvlaki with Tzatziki is the perfect summer meal! Pork tenderloin is marinated in a Mediterranean marinade and then grilled and paired with pita, tzatziki and a Greek salad.

Pin
Print

Prep:
20 minutes mins

Cook:
12 minutes mins

Total:
32 minutes mins

Servings:
6 servings

Video

Ingredients

• ▢
  
  2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin and excess fat, cut into 1″ cubes

For the Marinade:

• ▢
  
  2 lemon, juiced

• ▢
  
  1/2 cup olive oil

• ▢
  
  5 cloves garlic , minced

• ▢
  
  3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• ▢
  
  1 tablespoons dried oregano

• ▢
  
  1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ▢
  
  1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon black pepper, fresh ground

For the Tzatziki:

• ▢
  
  1 1/2 cups Greek Yogurt , {I like full fat but you can use low fat or no-fat}

• ▢
  
  3 cloves garlic , finely minced

• ▢
  
  2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• ▢
  
  1 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• ▢
  
  2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• ▢
  
  1/8 teaspoon black pepper

• ▢
  
  2 cups cucumber, grated (I used about 1 small}

For the Greek Salad:

• ▢
  
  1/2 English cucumber, diced

• ▢
  
  2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved. Quarter the tomatoes if they are larger

• ▢
  
  1/2 cup Kalamata olives, cut in half

• ▢
  
  1/4 cup mint, chopped

• ▢
  
  1/4 cup parsley, chopped

• ▢
  
  1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ▢
  
  1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• ▢
  
  3 tablespoons lemon juice

• ▢
  
  2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

• Mix all of the marinade ingredients together in a small mixing bowl. Place pork tenderloin cubes in a large Ziploc bag or glass Tupperware container and pour in the marinade.
• Seal the bag or close the container and toss to coat the pork with the marinade. Refrigerate the pork for two hours.
• Before grilling soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes unless you are using metal skewers.
• When you are ready to grill the pork heat the grill to medium high heat. Remove the pork from the fridge and remove the pork from the container or bag and discard the marinade.
• Set out a large platter or wooden cutting board. Thread the pork onto the wood or metal skewers.
• While the grill is heating make the Tzatziki sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dill, cucumber, salt and pepper and stir well to combine. Put in a covered container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
• To make the Greek salad combine the cucumber, tomato, olives, mint, parsley, oregano and feta cheese in a medium mixing bowl.
• In a mason jar or salad dressing container combine the lemon juice and olive oil and then pour on the salad and stir to combine. Refrigerate until ready to use.
• When the grill is ready grill the pork until browned on all sides, turning every couple of minutes. The pork should be cooked to a temperature of 145 degrees F which should take about 10 minutes.
• Remove from the grill and let the pork rest for 3 minutes. Serve the pork skewers with pita, Greek salad and tzatziki.

Nutrition

Calories: 547kcal,
Carbohydrates: 13g,
Protein: 40g,
Fat: 38g,
Saturated Fat: 8g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 24g,
Trans Fat: 0.1g,
Cholesterol: 112mg,
Sodium: 1008mg,
Potassium: 1005mg,
Fiber: 3g,
Sugar: 5g,
Vitamin A: 740IU,
Vitamin C: 41mg,
Calcium: 197mg,
Iron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Tried this recipe?Mention @acedarspoon or tag #acedarspoon!