These Easy Greek Ribs are a tasty treat, baked to perfect tenderness and then grilled for a nice smoky flavor. Your family will love the spices like oregano and garlic!
Baking them first means you get juicy ribs with less fuss, and the grill adds that perfect char. Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking bites while they rest! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are tender and flavorful, perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find baby back ribs, St. Louis-style ribs work well too and may be easier to find.
Olive Oil: A must for flavor and moisture. You can swap it for avocado oil for a slightly different taste or if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch. If you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder, but I’d stick with fresh for the best taste.
Dried Oregano and Thyme: These herbs give a classic Greek flavor. If fresh herbs are available, use them—just triple the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you prefer less smokiness, regular paprika works too. You could also use chili powder for a bit more heat!
Honey: It balances the flavors beautifully. Brown sugar could be an alternative if you need a non-liquid option, but the honey adds a unique sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: This is excellent for dipping. For a lighter option, you might consider low-fat yogurt or even tzatziki for more flavor!
How Do I Remove the Membrane from the Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the ribs is important for tenderness. It can create a barrier that makes it hard for the marinade to penetrate. Follow these simple steps for easy removal:
- Start at one end of the rib rack, where you can see the thin membrane layer.
- Use a butter knife (or any dull edge) to carefully lift the membrane away from the meat.
- Once you can grab it with your fingers or a paper towel, gently pull it off. It should come away easily; if not, carefully use your knife again.
Take your time with this step; it really makes a difference in the final texture of the ribs!
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 lbs total)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup honey
For Serving:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 2.5 to 3 hours to bake. If you can marinate the ribs overnight, that’s the best way to let the flavors soak in! Finally, grilling will take another 10-15 minutes. Overall, it’s a perfect dish for a leisurely weekend.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Take a moment to remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs; this helps make them extra tender. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and honey. Stir well to create a tasty marinade that’s full of flavor!
3. Marinate the Ribs:
Generously rub the marinade all over the ribs. Make sure to get the marinade into the spaces between the bones. For the best flavor, place the marinated ribs in a large resealable bag or wrap them in plastic wrap. Put them in the fridge and let them marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can.
4. Bake the Ribs:
Once the ribs have marinated, line a baking sheet with foil to make clean-up easier, and place the ribs on it. Cover the ribs loosely with another piece of foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until they are tender and juicy.
5. Prepare the Grill:
While the ribs are baking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it ready to give those ribs a nice char!
6. Grill the Ribs:
After baking, take the ribs out of the oven and unwrap the foil. Carefully place the ribs on the grill and grill them for about 5-10 minutes on each side. Brush with any remaining marinade or a little lemon juice as they cook, until they are beautifully caramelized and slightly crispy.
7. Serve:
Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with Greek yogurt for dipping and garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your mouthwatering Easy Greek Ribs!
Can I Use Other Types of Ribs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use baby back ribs, spare ribs, or even beef ribs. Just keep in mind that different cuts might require slight adjustments to the cooking time, so make sure to check for tenderness!
What if I Don’t Have Honey?
No worries! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. You can also use brown sugar mixed with a little water if you want a non-liquid option.
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a good stir before applying it to the ribs!
