Introduction

Transport yourself to the streets of Greece with these authentic Greek Souvlaki Skewers! Marinated in a rich blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs, these pork or chicken skewers are grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. Searing at 1,000°F on the center grill grate locks in the meat's delicious juices before slowly bringing them to the perfect temperature on the flat cooktop griddle. Paired with fresh pita, tzatziki, and grilled veggies, this dish is an absolute feast for the senses. Fire up your Arteflame and let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork tenderloin or chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, onions, zucchini), chopped
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the firewood to burn for 20 minutes until the grill is ready.

Step 2: Marinate the Meat

1. In a large bowl, mix garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Add the meat to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 3: Skewer the Meat

1. Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked skewers, alternating with chopped vegetables.

Step 4: Sear the Meat

1. Melt the butter on the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Place skewers on the center grill grate and sear on high heat (1,000°F) for 1-2 minutes per side to lock in juices.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

1. Move the skewers to the outer flat cooktop griddle and let them finish cooking.
2. Cook until an internal temperature of 140°F (for pork) or 155°F (for chicken), as they will continue cooking after being removed.

Step 6: Grill the Pita

1. Place pita bread on the flat cooktop griddle and grill for 1 minute per side until warm and slightly charred.

Tips

• Always remove the meat from the grill when it is 15°F below the desired temperature to account for carryover cooking.
• Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
• Use butter for grilling as it enhances flavor better than olive oil.

Variations

1. Lemon-Rosemary Souvlaki: Add fresh rosemary and extra lemon juice for a citrusy, herbaceous flavor.
2. Spicy Souvlaki: Incorporate red chili flakes and cayenne pepper into the marinade for an added kick.
3. Greek Yogurt Marinade: Mix Greek yogurt with the spices for an extra tender and slightly tangy flavor.
4. Garlic Butter Souvlaki: Add extra melted garlic butter during grilling for rich, buttery goodness.
5. Herb & Honey Souvlaki: Add a touch of honey and fresh mint for a sweet and savory twist.

Conclusion

These Greek Souvlaki Skewers grilled on the Arteflame grill are a true delight! Perfectly juicy and packed with Mediterranean flavors, they are the ultimate summer meal. Fire up your grill, gather your friends, and enjoy a feast that transports you straight to Greece!

Best Pairings

• Grilled halloumi cheese
• Greek salad with feta and olives
• Homemade hummus with pita chips
• Chilled retsina or Greek white wine
• Oven-roasted potatoes with lemon and garlic