Pork Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki are a classic Greek favorite that captures the heart of Mediterranean cooking—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and joyful sharing. Tender chunks of pork are marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano, then grilled to juicy perfection with a lightly charred exterior.

Served alongside cool, creamy tzatziki, this dish delivers a beautiful balance of smoky, tangy, and refreshing flavors.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly flavorful yet refreshingly simple. The marinade works its magic with minimal effort, the grill adds irresistible smokiness, and the homemade tzatziki brings everything together with its cool, garlicky freshness. It’s reliable, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Authentic Greek flavors with easy preparation
• Juicy, tender pork with a smoky char
• Balanced perfectly with creamy tzatziki
• Great for grilling season or indoor cooking
• Versatile—serve as skewers, wraps, or plates

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Marinating Time: 1–8 hours
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: ~35 minutes active
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~420 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean

Ingredients

For the Pork Souvlaki

• 1½ lbs pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1½ cups Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
• 1 medium cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint, chopped (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Marinate pork until flavorful and tender.
2. Thread pork onto skewers.
3. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through.
4. Prepare tzatziki while pork cooks.
5. Serve hot with cool tzatziki.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Make the marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Marinate pork: Toss pork cubes in marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours).
3. Prepare tzatziki: Combine yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and herbs. Chill until ready.
4. Skewer pork: Thread marinated pork onto skewers evenly.
5. Preheat grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high.
6. Cook skewers: Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and cooked through.
7. Rest: Let skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve with warm pita bread and tzatziki
• Add Greek salad, lemon potatoes, or rice
• Remove meat from skewers and make wraps
• Drizzle with olive oil and extra lemon juice

Recipe Tips

• Pork shoulder stays juicier than loin
• Don’t skip marinating time—it adds flavor
• Soak wooden skewers 30 minutes before grilling
• Grill over medium-high for best char
• Always rest meat briefly before serving

Variations

• Chicken Souvlaki: Substitute pork with chicken thighs
• Herb-Forward: Add fresh thyme or rosemary
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne
• Oven-Baked: Roast skewers at 425°F (220°C) for 15–18 minutes
• Dairy-Free Sauce: Use dairy-free yogurt for tzatziki

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked pork up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze marinated raw pork up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat gently in skillet or oven; avoid microwave for best texture

Special Equipment Needed

• Skewers (metal or wooden)
• Grill, grill pan, or cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Box grater (for cucumber)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I cook souvlaki without a grill?
Yes, a grill pan or cast-iron skillet works perfectly.

Q: What cut of pork is best?
Pork shoulder for juiciness, loin for leaner skewers.

Q: Can I make tzatziki ahead?
Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours.

Q: How do I know pork is done?
Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

Pork Souvlaki Skewers with Tzatziki are a timeless Mediterranean classic that never disappoints. Juicy, flavorful pork paired with cool, creamy tzatziki creates a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. Whether served at a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this recipe brings sunshine, simplicity, and Greek-inspired joy to your table.