These Easy Greek Ribs are a delicious treat! First, they are baked to make them tender and juicy. Then, a quick grill adds a smoky finish that makes them even better.
I love serving these ribs with a side of fresh salad. Honestly, it’s hard to eat just one! Be ready to have your fingers get a little messy, but that’s all part of the fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These ribs are tender and meaty, perfect for baking and grilling. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs or even country-style ribs can work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: A must for the marinade, olive oil adds moisture and helps the flavors stick. If you prefer a different flavor, avocado oil or melted coconut oil make good substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for a robust taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can suffice, but use about 1 teaspoon for every clove you replace.
Dried Oregano: This herb gives the ribs an authentic Greek flavor. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can be a suitable alternative, though it may change the flavor slightly.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps create a lovely glaze. Maple syrup or agave syrup can replace honey if you want a vegan version, just adjust the quantity to your taste.
How Can You Marinate Ribs for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for infusing the ribs with flavor. Start by combining all your marinade ingredients in a bowl. The longer you let the ribs soak, the tastier they will be, so aim for a minimum of 30 minutes, but overnight is best!
- Mix together olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Generously rub the mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Place them in a covered dish or zip-top bag in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
Remember, marinating is not just for flavor; it also helps tenderize the meat! So don’t skip on this step if you want juicy, tasty ribs.
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2.5 to 3 hours to bake the ribs. After baking, you’ll spend an additional 10-20 minutes grilling them for that perfect char. So, in total, you can expect around 3-3.5 hours from start to finish, plus optional marinating time if you let the ribs sit overnight!
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 the ribs become tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined and you have a lovely marinade.
3. Marinate the Ribs:
Take the ribs and rub the marinade generously over both sides. You want every square inch coated with that delicious flavor! For the best taste, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or, if you have time, overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Bake the Ribs:
Once marinated, place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, meat side up. Cover them tightly with another sheet of aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until they are super tender and practically falling off the bone.
5. Grill the Ribs:
While the ribs are baking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When the ribs are done baking, take them out and brush the top with honey for a touch of sweetness and a shiny glaze.
6. Get Grilling:
Carefully move the ribs to the grill. Grill them for about 5-10 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice char and those beautiful grill marks. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your Easy Greek Ribs!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Ribs?
Absolutely! If baby back ribs are not available, you can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, with spare ribs typically needing a bit longer in the oven due to their larger size.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
To store leftover ribs, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until warmed through, or grill them for a couple of minutes to crisp them up again!
Can I Marinate the Ribs for Longer?
Yes! Marinating the ribs for longer enhances the flavor. If you can, let them marinate overnight for at least 8 hours. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice can begin to break down the meat too much.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or a plain yogurt of your choice. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt. Just make sure it’s unflavored to maintain the balance of flavors!
