These Easy Greek Ribs are a tasty treat! You bake them first for tenderness, then grill them for that yummy char. The marinade features olive oil, lemon, and Greek spices that deliver fantastic flavors!
I love that these ribs are super easy to make! Just pop them in the oven, then finish them on the grill for a fun outdoor dinner. They’re perfect for a weekend gathering or a special family meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: I recommend baby back ribs for their tenderness and flavor. If you can’t find them, spare ribs are a good alternative. They are meatier and can be just as delicious when cooked right.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor to the marinade. If you’re looking for lower fat options, avocado oil also works well without losing the taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers a robust flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can make a decent substitute. Start with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for a similar taste.
Fresh Herbs: I love using fresh oregano and rosemary for their bright flavors. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs will work, though keep 1/3 less as they are more concentrated.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can suffice, but the smokiness will be missed. Consider adding a pinch of liquid smoke to mimic that flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Ribs Are Tender After Baking?
Getting tender ribs is all about low and slow cooking. Start by prepping your ribs correctly and following these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to keep it low.
- Wrap ribs in foil to trap steam and moisture; this helps them cook evenly and become tender.
- Bake them for 2.5 to 3 hours until they are easily pierced with a fork.
Letting them rest after grilling is also key; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time! Enjoy creating those tender, flavorful ribs!
How to Make Easy Greek Ribs (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs and Marinade:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds total)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 2.5 to 3 hours to bake. After that, you’ll grill the ribs for about 10-20 minutes. Total time is around 3 hours and 15 minutes, including cooking and resting time. But don’t worry; most of that is hands-off while the ribs bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping and Marinating the Ribs:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make a tasty marinade. Mix it all up until it’s combined well.
2. Baking the Ribs:
Next, take the ribs and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil (this makes for easy cleanup!). Generously rub the marinade all over the ribs so they are well coated. Cover the baking sheet with another piece of foil to help keep the moisture in, and pop the ribs into the oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are nice and tender.
3. Grilling for Flavor:
Once the ribs are baked to perfection, it’s time to get the grill ready! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Carefully take the ribs out of the oven and remove the top layer of foil. Brush the ribs with a little more marinade or olive oil for an extra flavor boost. Grill the ribs for about 5-10 minutes on each side, watching for those beautiful grill marks to form.
4. Resting and Serving:
After grilling, remove the ribs from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in. Now, cut the ribs into portions and sprinkle them with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the delicious ribs with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs?
Yes! You can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs instead of baby back ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; spare ribs might take a bit longer to become tender, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through, or grill them again for a few minutes to refresh the flavors.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may settle. You can also marinate the ribs for several hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Tzatziki Sauce?
If you don’t have tzatziki sauce, you can serve the ribs with a yogurt-based dip or a simple garlic sauce. Alternatively, a tangy sour cream mixed with chopped cucumbers and a sprinkle of dill can make a refreshing substitute!
