Chargrilled Pork Souvlaki with Lemon-Oregano Marinade

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender pork skewers marinated in bright lemon juice and fresh oregano, charred to smoky perfection and served with a tangy yogurt sauce. This greek-inspired pork ready in about 30 minutes blends fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, fresh oregano, chopped into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Greek cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine 1.5 pounds pork shoulder cubes with 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Toss well to coat, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. Step 2: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated pork cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces to ensure even cooking.
  3. Step 3: Grill the pork skewers for about 10-12 minutes total, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the edges are caramelized and the interior reaches 145°F with a slight pink center.
  4. Step 4: While the pork cooks, mix 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt with 1/2 cup grated cucumber, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, and 1 tsp lemon zest in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and stir until combined.
  5. Step 5: Serve the hot pork souvlaki skewers with the refreshing yogurt sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Chargrilled Pork Souvlaki with Lemon-Oregano Marinade take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Chargrilled Pork Souvlaki with Lemon-Oregano Marinade?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Chargrilled Pork Souvlaki with Lemon-Oregano Marinade?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Chargrilled Pork Souvlaki with Lemon-Oregano Marinade for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Chargrilled Pork Souvlaki with Lemon-Oregano Marinade?

Greek pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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