Tips for Experienced Cooks
To achieve a deeper flavor profile, consider marinating the beef cubes overnight. The longer marination time allows the spices to penetrate the meat more thoroughly, enhancing the taste. When grilling, use high heat initially to sear the outside, creating a flavorful crust, then lower the heat to finish cooking. This technique ensures a juicy interior with a delightful char on the outside. For an added touch, try grilling lemon halves and serving alongside the beef for a fresh, vibrant squeeze over the meat before eating. To elevate the tzatziki sauce, use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier texture and consider draining the grated cucumber to remove excess moisture, ensuring a thicker, more concentrated sauce.
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb beef cubes
Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, grated cucumber, salt, and pepper to make the tzatziki sauce. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup grated cucumber
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step 3: Grill the Marinated Beef
Thread the marinated beef onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked to desired doneness.
Step 4: Prepare the Couscous
Bring the chicken broth to a boil, then add the couscous and parsley. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Step 5: Assemble the Greek Salad
In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 red onion (sliced)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step 6: Serve
Serve the beef souvlaki with tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, and herbed couscous.
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin
Pantry Items
- 1/4 cup greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Seasonings & Spices
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch pepper
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 2 large cucumber
- 1 cup cherry tomato
- 1/2 whole red onion
- 1/2 cup kalamata olive
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley