This Easy Greek Ribs Recipe combines tender ribs with a zesty marinade featuring olive oil, lemon, and herbs. Baking them first keeps them juicy before a quick grill for a perfect finish!
These ribs are such a hit at my house! I love how they’re easy to prepare, and the flavors are so bright and tasty. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a little grilling fun in the backyard? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are great for tenderness, but spare ribs are often meatier and more flavorful. If you prefer a leaner cut, try using turkey ribs or chicken, but adjust cooking times as they will cook faster.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil will give a fruity flavor. For a lighter option, use avocado oil. If you’re looking for something different, sesame oil adds a unique twist, especially when paired with the other flavors.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds acidity to balance flavors. If you don’t have it, substitute with apple cider vinegar or even balsamic vinegar for a sweeter taste. Just keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Greek Yogurt: For that traditional serving side, Greek yogurt is best due to its creaminess and tang. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt works well—but ensure it’s unsweetened.
How Do I Remove the Silver Skin from Ribs?
Taking off the silver skin is key for tender ribs. This thin membrane can toughen the texture if left on. To do this, slide a butter knife or your fingers underneath the edge, then grab the membrane with a paper towel for a better grip and pull it off.
- Make sure you work gently to avoid tearing the ribs.
- If it resists, slide the knife further along to separate more of it.
- Always remove it before marinating to allow flavors to soak in!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Ribs?
Marinating adds a wonderful flavor to your ribs. For the best result, let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour; overnight is ideal. Make sure the marinade fully coats the ribs. Use a large resealable bag for easy flipping and coating.
How Do I Know When the Ribs Are Done Baking?
To check for tenderness, after 2.5 to 3 hours, use a fork or knife to see if the meat pulls away easily from the bone. The internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C) for perfect tenderness.
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 3 hours and 30 minutes total, including 1 hour of marinating (or more for better flavor), 2.5 to 3 hours of baking, and 10-14 minutes for grilling. It’s worth the wait for those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This will help cook the ribs evenly and make them tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Now, let’s get the ribs ready. Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs; this is a thin, tough membrane that can make them chewy. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will make the ribs taste amazing!
4. Marinate the Ribs:
Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure they’re well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have time, letting them sit overnight will really boost those flavors!
5. Bake the Ribs:
Once marinated, take the ribs out and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover them tightly with foil and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are nice and tender.
6. Preheat the Grill:
While the ribs are baking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s ready when the ribs come out of the oven.
7. Grill the Ribs:
After the ribs have finished baking, take them out of the oven and discard any remaining marinade. Place the ribs on the hot grill and grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. This will give them a lovely char and caramelized flavor!
8. Serve:
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling. Serve them with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt on the side and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious Easy Greek Ribs!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are recommended for their tenderness, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; spare ribs usually take a bit longer to become tender.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, sour cream or a thick plain yogurt will work in a pinch. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt alternative that’s creamy and unsweetened.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a good stir before marinating the ribs to mix everything back together.
