These Easy Greek Ribs are juicy and packed with flavor! They get a lovely coating of garlic, lemon, and herbs, then they are baked and finished on the grill for that perfect char.
I can’t help but smile when these are on the table—there’s something fun about ribs! I like to serve them with a simple salad for a tasty meal that everyone loves!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These ribs are tender and meaty. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs or St. Louis-cut ribs can work as substitutes, but they may need a bit longer cooking time.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil is a great substitute due to its high smoke point.
Dried Oregano: This spice is key to giving the ribs that authentic Greek flavor. If you prefer, fresh oregano can be used, but double the quantity since it’s less concentrated.
Greek Yogurt: For a tangy dip, Greek yogurt is perfect. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a coconut yogurt instead, but be aware it may sweeten the flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds some heat. If you want less spice, you can skip it or use a pinch of paprika instead for flavor without much heat.
How Do I Properly Prepare Ribs for Cooking?
Preparing ribs is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Start by removing the membrane on the back of the ribs. This tough layer can keep the smoke and seasoning from penetrating the meat. Here’s how:
- Use a paper towel for grip and gently peel off the membrane from one end.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning.
This preparation ensures your ribs absorb all those tasty spices and achieve a tender, juicy finish after baking and grilling!
Easy Greek Ribs (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 2.5 to 3 hours to bake the ribs. After baking, it’s just a quick 10-15 minutes on the grill. In total, you’ll need about 3 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy these tasty Greek ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While it heats up, get your ribs ready. Remove the tough membrane from the back of the ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better and makes for tender meat!
2. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). This mix will add a lot of flavor to your ribs!
3. Season the Ribs:
Now it’s time to rub the spice mixture all over the ribs. Make sure to coat both sides evenly, so every bite is packed with delicious taste. It’s okay to get your hands a little messy; just make sure the ribs are well covered!
4. Bake the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs in a baking dish and cover them tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are nice and tender. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing during this time!
5. Grill the Ribs:
While the ribs are baking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once the ribs are done baking, carefully remove them from the oven and take off the foil. This step is important to get that nice grilling flavor.
6. Get Grilling:
Transfer the ribs to the hot grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to get nice grill marks and caramelization. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Rest and Prepare to Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the ribs from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in. While they rest, mix the Greek yogurt with lemon juice in a small bowl to create a refreshing dipping sauce.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Slice the ribs and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle with the yogurt sauce and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy your delicious Greek ribs!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are tender and flavorful, you can substitute them with spareribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary; fattier cuts like spareribs will likely need a bit longer in the oven to become tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want more heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or even 1 teaspoon, depending on your spice preference. Additionally, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the yogurt sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Store Leftover Ribs?
Yes, you can store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. You can also grill them again for a few minutes to bring back the crispy texture.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with regular plain yogurt or sour cream. Both will provide a creamy texture, but the flavor profile will be slightly different. If using sour cream, you might want to add a touch more lemon juice for brightness.
