The flavors of Greece – rich, bold, and full of life. When it comes to cooking with pork, the Greeks have a special way of bringing out its natural sweetness and tenderizing it to perfection. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and authentic Greek pork recipes that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.
From classic souvlaki and gyros to hearty stews and roasts, these recipes showcase the best of Greek cuisine’s bold flavors and aromas. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouth-watering Greek pork dishes. So sit back, grab your apron, and get ready to experience the taste of Greece!
Greek-style pork souvlaki with lemon and oregano
Savor the flavors of Greece with this classic souvlaki recipe, featuring tender pork skewers infused with bright lemon zest and fragrant oregano.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the pork cubes and toss to coat evenly.
3. Thread the marinated pork onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the souvlaki for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Slow-roasted Greek pork shoulder with garlic and rosemary
Slow-Roasted Greek Pork Shoulder with Garlic and Rosemary
A classic combination of flavors from the Mediterranean, this slow-roasted pork shoulder is perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion. With its tender texture and rich aroma, you’ll want to serve it again and again.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and slow-roast for 6-8 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Greek pork gyros with tzatziki sauce
Experience the classic Greek street food with juicy pork gyros served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
– Optional toppings: tomato, red onion, cucumber, feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by placing a pork patty on each pita bread, then top with tzatziki sauce and desired toppings.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Greek pork kebabs with bell peppers and onions
Grilled pork kebabs are a staple of Greek cuisine, and when paired with sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions, they become a deliciously satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread pork, onions, bell peppers, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Grill kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until pork is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Greek pork stifado with pearl onions and red wine
This hearty stew from Greece is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender pork, sweet pearl onions, and rich red wine. Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, sliced
– 12 pearl onions, peeled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add pearl onions, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return pork to the pot, cover, and simmer for 2 hours or until tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Greek pork chops with feta and olives
Savor the flavors of Greece with this simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Crispy pork chops are topped with creamy feta cheese, briny olives, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer pork chops to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Top each pork chop with crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, and chopped oregano.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek pork and potato stew with tomatoes
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of pork with the comfort of potatoes, all infused with the tanginess of tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onions and garlic to the pot; cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pork to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek pork meatballs in tomato sauce
Greek Pork Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe
This classic Greek recipe combines tender pork meatballs with a rich and tangy tomato sauce, perfect for serving over rice, pasta, or as a sandwich filling. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pork, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, red wine vinegar, tomato paste, and salt; bring to a simmer.
6. Add meatballs to the saucepan and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek pork souvlaki pita wraps
Greek Pork Souvlaki Pita Wraps: A flavorful and satisfying snack or meal that combines juicy pork souvlaki with crispy pita bread, creamy tzatziki sauce, and fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomatoes, sliced
– Red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add pork cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill pork souvlaki for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in oven for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble wraps by placing grilled pork, tzatziki sauce, lettuce leaves, tomatoes, and red onion on each pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek pork tenderloin with honey and mustard glaze
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of this Greek-inspired pork tenderloin dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the honey-mustard glaze all over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly.
6. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek pork and vegetable skewers
Greek Pork and Vegetable Skewers: A flavorful and colorful kebab recipe that combines tender pork with a medley of vegetables, all infused with the bold flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the pork cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread pork, bell peppers, onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
5. Brush with remaining marinade and season with oregano.
6. Grill or broil for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until pork is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek-style pork ribs with oregano and lemon
A classic Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the rich flavor of pork ribs with the bright, zesty notes of lemon and oregano.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped oregano leaves
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the pork ribs (this will help them cook more evenly).
4. Place the ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the marinade, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Greek pork and orzo bake
A hearty and flavorful one-dish meal that combines the richness of pork with the nutty goodness of orzo, all wrapped up in a savory Greek-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, pork mixture, chicken broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with feta cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pork is tender and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek pork sausage with peppers and onions
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this hearty sausage dish, packed with juicy pork, crispy peppers, and caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Greek-style pork sausages
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. Remove sausages from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced peppers and onions. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Add cooked sausages back into the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir in minced garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the skillet contents to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until sausages are fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek pork and spinach stuffed peppers
This flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of pork, spinach, and feta cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious Greek-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the pork mixture and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek pork and feta stuffed tomatoes
Savor the flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering dish, where juicy pork and crumbly feta cheese meet ripe tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground pork to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stuff each tomato with the pork mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
6. Top each tomato with crumbled feta cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek pork moussaka with eggplant
A classic Greek dish that combines tender pork, rich tomato sauce, and flavorful eggplant, all layered between a crispy bechamel topping. This recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pork, onion, and garlic in a skillet until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Layer the eggplant slices in a baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
4. Spread half of the tomato sauce over the eggplant, followed by the cooked pork mixture.
5. Top with remaining tomato sauce and bechamel sauce.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt to taste
Combine butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan, whisking until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Greek pork and lemon roasted potatoes
Elevate your roasted potatoes with a burst of Greek flavors! This recipe combines the sweetness of potatoes, the tanginess of lemon, and the savory flavor of pork for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound pork tenderloin or pork chops, sliced into thin strips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread potato wedges on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, cook pork strips in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Serve roasted potatoes alongside the cooked pork.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these 18 mouthwatering pork recipes. From classic souvlaki to hearty stews, each dish showcases the country’s iconic ingredients like lemon, oregano, feta, and olives. Try slow-roasted pork shoulder with garlic and rosemary, or indulge in tender pork chops topped with crumbled feta and briny olives. Discover comforting pork and potato stew, flavorful meatballs in tomato sauce, and succulent pork ribs slathered with oregano and lemon. These authentic Greek recipes will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.