These Easy Greek Ribs are a treat! Cooked first in the oven and then finished off on the grill, they’re packed with flavors from garlic, lemon, and herbs. Yum!
The best part for me? They’re super easy to make! I love just tossing them in the oven and relaxing while they cook, then getting that perfect char on the grill—so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: You can use baby back ribs or spare ribs. Baby backs are leaner while spare ribs are meatier. If you’re looking for a different option, beef ribs could work, but they will change the flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and richness. Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor, but you can substitute with canola oil or avocado oil if you want a neutral taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used instead, but start with half a teaspoon as it’s more concentrated.
Dried Oregano: This herb provides a classic Greek flavor. If you don’t have oregano, you can substitute with Italian seasoning, which includes oregano and other herbs.
Cayenne Pepper: It’s optional for heat. Instead, you can use red pepper flakes for some crunch or skip it for milder ribs.
Honey: This adds sweetness. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you’re vegan or just want an alternative sweetener.
How Can I Ensure My Ribs Are Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender ribs is to remove the silver skin from the back. This tough membrane can prevent seasoning from penetrating and can make ribs chewy. It’s easy to remove with a clean paper towel; just grip and pull it off.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cover the ribs tightly with foil when baking; this traps steam and moisture, making them tender.
- Grill them after baking for flavor and char; don’t skip basting with leftover marinade! It enhances moisture and flavor.
With these tips, your ribs will come out gorgeous and delicious every time. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon honey
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2.5 to 3 hours to bake. After baking, you’ll grill the ribs for an additional 10-14 minutes. So, overall, give yourself around 3 hours and 15 minutes, plus any extra marinating time if you decide to do that ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking will help make your ribs tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Rinse the ribs under cold water and carefully remove the silver skin from the back. This is the thin membrane that can make the ribs tough. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade sticks well.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. Then add the fresh lemon juice and honey. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and fragrant!
4. Marinate the Ribs:
Generously rub the marinade over both sides of the ribs. For the best flavor, cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, letting it sit overnight is even better!
5. Bake the Ribs:
Once marinaded, take the ribs out and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil. Make sure the meaty side is facing up, and cover the ribs tightly with another sheet of foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours or until the ribs are tender and the meat is pulling away from the bone.
6. Prepare the Grill:
While the ribs are baking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will give you the perfect char after the ribbons are cooked.
7. Grill the Ribs:
After baking, take the ribs out of the oven and remove the top foil. Place the ribs on the grill, and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Baste with any leftover marinade for extra flavor and to keep them moist.
8. Serve:
Once grilled to your liking, take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Now slice them up and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your delicious Easy Greek Ribs!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for pork ribs, you can substitute with chicken wings or thighs for a different flavor and texture. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken typically requires less time to bake.
How Can I Make These Ribs Spicier?
If you like heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also brush on your favorite spicy BBQ sauce while grilling for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ribs?
After letting the ribs cool completely, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them, and they’ll last for up to 3 months! Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Prepare the Ribs the Day Before?
Yes, you can! Marinate the ribs the night before and keep them in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor. Just bring them to room temperature before baking for the best results.
