Introduction

Beef and Vegetable Kebabs with Tzatziki are a vibrant, flavorful, and protein-packed meal perfect for grilling season, family dinners, or casual gatherings. Tender chunks of beef are marinated in aromatic herbs and spices, then skewered with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Grilled to perfection, they are served with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, adding a refreshing contrast to the smoky, savory kebabs.

This recipe is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, offering a healthy, satisfying meal that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Kebabs are not only fun to make but also allow customization for different tastes and dietary preferences.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Juicy: The marinade tenderizes the beef while infusing it with rich herbs and spices.
• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
• Fresh and Light: Tzatziki adds a creamy, refreshing element without heaviness.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Skewers are visually appealing and perfect for social meals.
• Customizable: Easy to switch up vegetables or protein for variety.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it combines juicy, marinated beef with vibrant vegetables and a creamy, tangy sauce for a truly memorable meal. Kebabs are quick to cook, versatile, and perfect for all occasions, from weeknight dinners to backyard barbecues. The combination of grilled smokiness, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki makes it a healthy and indulgent dish at the same time.

Time, Servings & Nutrition

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 1–2 hours marinating)
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours
• Servings: 4 (2 kebabs per person)
• Calories (approx): 350 kcal per serving

Course: Main Course / Grilled Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Greek

Ingredients

For Kebabs:

• 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1–1.5 inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

For Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp chopped fresh dill (or ½ tsp dried dill)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add beef cubes and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
2. Prepare Tzatziki: Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture. Combine cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
3. Assemble Kebabs: Thread marinated beef, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
4. Grill Kebabs: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill skewers 3–5 minutes per side until beef is cooked to desired doneness and vegetables are slightly charred.
5. Serve: Plate kebabs with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce. Optional: serve with pita bread, rice, or a side salad.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Mix marinade ingredients and coat beef; marinate 1–2 hours.
2. Grate cucumber and prepare tzatziki sauce; chill.
3. Thread beef and vegetables onto skewers.
4. Preheat grill and cook skewers 3–5 minutes per side.
5. Serve hot with tzatziki and optional sides.

How to Serve

• Serve kebabs as a main dish with tzatziki sauce.
• Pair with warm pita bread, couscous, rice, or a fresh Greek salad.
• Drizzle extra olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs for presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Cut beef and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the grill for best sear and char.
• Let beef rest 5 minutes after grilling for juicy results.
• Tzatziki can be made a day ahead to let flavors develop.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use chicken, lamb, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
• Veggie Variations: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or harissa to the marinade.
• Mediterranean Style: Serve with olives, feta, and fresh tomatoes.
• Oven Version: Broil skewers in the oven for 10–12 minutes if no grill is available.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked kebabs (without tzatziki) in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Tzatziki: Best served fresh; store separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Raw marinated beef can be frozen in a zip-lock bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before skewering and grilling.

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Mixing bowls for marinade and tzatziki
• Grater for cucumber
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen beef?
It’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking and proper marination.

Q2: Can I make tzatziki ahead of time?
Yes, make tzatziki 1 day in advance for maximum flavor.

Q3: Can I bake or broil the kebabs instead of grilling?
Yes, broil in the oven for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.

Q4: How do I prevent beef from drying out?
Do not overcook; medium-rare to medium is ideal. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Q5: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, use tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables instead of beef.

Conclusion

Beef and Vegetable Kebabs with Tzatziki are a fresh, flavorful, and visually appealing meal that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table. With tender, marinated beef, colorful vegetables, and creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish is perfect for grilling season, entertaining, or a healthy weeknight dinner. Quick to prepare, easy to customize, and bursting with flavor, these kebabs are a must-try for anyone who loves vibrant, healthy, and satisfying meals.