These Easy Greek Ribs are a treat! First, they bake slowly in the oven to become super tender, then they get that perfect grilled finish for a nice char. Yum!
Just imagine the juicy meat seasoned with tasty spices like garlic and oregano. I always end up licking my fingers after enjoying these ribs. Who wouldn’t? 😂
What I love most is how simple it is to make these ribs. Just throw them in the oven, then on the grill, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are my go-to for tenderness, but spare ribs can also work well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using chicken or turkey ribs, though cooking times will differ.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for flavor. If you’re out, you can use canola or sunflower oil instead. Both have a neutral taste and will work just fine!
Spices: Garlic and onion powders all add a deep flavor. Fresh minced garlic or onion can substitute, just keep in mind you may need to adjust quantities as they’re stronger when fresh. Oregano is essential for that Greek note; if unavailable, you can use Italian seasoning too.
Greek Yogurt: This is the base for our tzatziki. If you’d like a lighter option, try low-fat yogurt or sour cream. You could even use plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version!
Red Pepper Flakes: This is optional for a mild kick. If you prefer heat, you could use cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce in your tzatziki.
How Do I Remove the Membrane for Tender Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is key for tenderness. This thin, tough layer can prevent seasoning from penetrating the meat. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Use a knife to gently slide under a corner of the membrane at one end of the ribs.
- Once you have a grip, pull it off gently; a paper towel can help with grip.
- If it tears, just start again from another corner until it’s fully removed.
Taking the time to do this makes sure your ribs are more flavorful and tender. Trust me, it’s worth it!
How to Make Easy Greek Ribs (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2.5 to 3 hours to bake, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for grilling. Overall, you’re looking at roughly 3 hours of total time before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ribs:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Rinse the ribs under cold water and then pat them dry using paper towels. If your ribs have a thin membrane on the back, gently peel it off for more tender results.
2. Making the Spice Paste:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, paprika, black pepper, salt, and optional red pepper flakes. This will be your flavorful spice paste.
3. Seasoning the Ribs:
Generously rub the spice paste all over the ribs, making sure they are well coated. This will give your ribs a delicious flavor!
4. Baking the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet and cover them tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and fully cooked.
5. Grilling the Ribs:
Once the ribs are done baking, take them out of the oven and preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Grill the ribs for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they have a nice char and caramelized effect. This will add amazing grill flavor!
6. Preparing the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the ribs are grilling, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and fresh parsley. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. This creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the ribs!
7. Serving the Ribs:
After grilling, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into them. Serve with the tzatziki sauce on the side and sprinkle some extra fresh parsley on top for a lovely garnish.
Enjoy your deliciously tender and flavorful Greek-style ribs!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Ribs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby back and spare ribs work best, you can also use St. Louis-style ribs or country-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the meat, so adjust accordingly to ensure tenderness.
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, wrap them in aluminum foil before placing them in the container to help maintain moisture. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months — just make sure to wrap them tightly!
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt or sour cream. Just remember that regular yogurt will be slightly thinner, so it may not have the same creamy consistency. You can also add some grated cucumber and minced garlic for a tzatziki-like flavor!
Can I Prepare the Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season the ribs in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat even more. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
