These Easy Greek Ribs are a tasty twist on classic ribs! Marinated in a mix of olive oil, lemon, and herbs, they’re cooked slowly in the oven before hitting the grill for a smoky finish.
Trust me, your friends will be begging for seconds. I love serving these with a fresh salad and some pita bread. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are tender and meaty, perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find baby back ribs, you can use spare ribs or pork loin ribs. They may need a bit longer cooking time due to their size.
Olive Oil: A staple in Greek cooking, olive oil adds richness and flavor. If you want a lighter option, feel free to substitute with avocado oil. It has a similar flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you could use garlic powder; just use about 1 teaspoon as a substitute.
Dried Oregano: This herb is essential for that classic Greek taste. If you don’t have dried oregano, Italian seasoning can work in a pinch, though it includes other herbs.
Paprika: This adds a mild sweetness and color. Smoked paprika would enhance the flavor even more, but any type of paprika will do. For a kick, use spicy paprika or chili powder.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional, but it adds nice heat. You can skip it if you prefer less spice or use a bit of crushed red pepper instead.
How Do I Prepare the Ribs for Tenderness?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial for tenderness. The membrane can be tough and chewy, so getting rid of it ensures a better bite!
- Flip the ribs meat-side down and find the thin, shiny membrane at the back.
- Use a butter knife to gently lift one edge of the membrane.
- Grab a paper towel for a better grip and pull the membrane off in one piece.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels afterward, as this helps the marinade stick better.
After this step, your ribs will absorb the flavors more effectively, leading to a more enjoyable meal!
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Serving:
- Tzatziki sauce (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 2.5 to 3 hours to bake, plus an additional 10-20 minutes on the grill. With a little patience, you’ll have tender, flavorful ribs ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will help make the ribs tender and juicy.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if you want some heat). This flavorful marinade will give the ribs a delicious Greek twist!
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Next, prepare the ribs by removing the tough membrane from the back. This will help the ribs become more tender when cooked. After that, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade sticks well.
4. Coat the Ribs:
Rub the spice and oil mixture all over the ribs, making sure to cover them completely. Place the coated ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Cover the ribs with another piece of foil to keep them moist while baking.
5. Bake the Ribs:
Put the covered ribs in the oven and let them bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. They should be nice and tender when finished, so you can easily work a fork through the meat.
6. Heat the Grill:
While the ribs are baking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will give them a perfect char when they finish in the oven.
7. Grill the Ribs:
Once the ribs are done baking, carefully take them out of the oven and remove the top layer of foil. Transfer the ribs to the grill and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes on each side. Baste them with any leftover marinade to enhance the flavor and get some nice grill marks.
8. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the ribs and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps redistribute the juices in the meat. When you’re ready to eat, serve the ribs with tasty tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the delicious Greek flavors!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are ideal for this recipe, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; spare ribs might take a bit longer to become tender, so check for doneness by using the same baking method and time adjustments based on the size of the ribs.
Can I Prepare the Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the ribs in advance! You can season them and allow them to marinate in the spice mix for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake as per the instructions.
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them moist when reheating, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the grill for a few minutes to regain some crispiness.
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce at Home?
Yes! Tzatziki is easy to make at home. Simply combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of grated cucumber (squeezed dry), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and salt to taste. Mix well and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
