These Easy Greek Ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with herbs like oregano and thyme. The best part? They start in the oven and finish on the grill for that perfect smoky flavor!
Who doesn’t love a good rib? I make these often because they’re so simple to prepare. Just rub, bake, and grill—sounds great, right? 🍖 Enjoy with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: You can choose baby back or spare ribs based on your preference. Baby back ribs are leaner and more tender, while spare ribs have more fat and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken ribs can work too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out, feel free to use other oils like avocado or grapeseed oil. They have a neutral flavor and work well in marinades.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute at about 1 teaspoon per clove.
Spices: Dried oregano and thyme give unique flavors. You can swap them with Italian seasoning if you’re in a pinch. For paprika, smoked paprika will add a delicious depth.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds heat, but it’s totally optional! If you want less spice, try adding a dash of chili powder instead.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness. You can replace it with vinegar (white or apple cider) for a different tangy profile.
How Do I Achieve Tender and Flavorful Ribs?
To get those perfectly tender ribs, cook them low and slow. Baking at a low temperature breaks down the collagen in the meat, making it deliciously tender. Here are simple tips:
- Cover the ribs with foil during baking to keep them moist.
- Cook until the meat pulls away from the bone easily. This usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Let them rest a bit after grilling for juiciness.
How to Make Easy Greek Ribs (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Ribs:
- 2-3 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus about 2.5 to 3 hours in the oven. After that, you’ll need an additional 10-20 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’re looking at around 3 hours to get these delicious ribs ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking will make the ribs tender and juicy.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and lemon juice. This will be the flavorful marinade for your ribs.
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Take a paper towel and pat the ribs dry. This helps the marinade stick better! Place the ribs on a large baking sheet or a roasting pan. Now, rub that delicious marinade all over the ribs, making sure they’re well-coated. Get in there and really work it into the meat!
4. Bake the Ribs:
Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You know they’re done when they’re nice and tender.
5. Prep for Grilling:
Once the ribs are finished baking, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool a little. While they’re cooling, get your grill preheated to medium-high heat.
6. Grill the Ribs:
Now, it’s time to transfer the baked ribs onto the grill. Grill each side for about 5-10 minutes, brushing with any leftover marinade. You want them to get a beautiful char and caramelization!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once grilled to perfection, take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into them. This will help keep them juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the ribs warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Don’t forget the tzatziki sauce for dipping! Enjoy your Greek ribs with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ribs?
Absolutely! You can use spare ribs or even beef ribs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so make sure to check for tenderness as you bake.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No problem! If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, you can substitute it with bottled lemon juice. Just use about 3 tablespoons for a similar flavor. For a twist, you could also use lime juice for some extra zest!
Can I Marinate the Ribs Overnight?
Yes, marinating the ribs overnight is a great idea! Just make sure to cover them well in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Simply bring them to room temperature before baking them the next day.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until warmed through, or give them a quick sear on the grill for added flavor!
