These Easy Greek Ribs are a tasty twist on your regular ribs! They’re juicy and packed with flavors from olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices. First, they bake until tender, then get a quick grill for that smoky touch!
What I love most is the zesty burst of flavor in each bite. Throw a few extra lemon wedges on the side—trust me, they really brighten up the meal. Perfect for a fun family BBQ! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are tender and perfect for baking and grilling. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs are a great alternative, though they may take slightly longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice depth to your marinade. You could substitute it with avocado oil or for a lighter flavor, try grapeseed oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be an alternative, but use less (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove).
Dried Oregano and Thyme: These herbs give the dish its Greek flavor. If fresh herbs are available, use them instead. You can double the amount since fresh herbs are milder than dried.
Paprika: I prefer smoked paprika for its rich flavor. Regular paprika will work fine too. You could use chili powder for a bit more heat.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization on the grill. For a healthier option, try honey or maple syrup, adjusting the amounts since these are sweeter.
Greek Yogurt or Tzatziki Sauce: These make the perfect dip! If you’re lactose-intolerant, try a dairy-free yogurt or make a tahini dip instead.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is important because it allows the marinade to penetrate better, enhancing flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the ribs so the bony side is facing up.
- Locate the thin, silver membrane at one end of the ribs.
- Using a butter knife, gently lift one edge of the membrane until you can grab it with paper towels for a better grip.
- Pull it off slowly. It may come off in pieces, which is okay.
Taking the time to remove this membrane will truly enhance your ribs and make them even more enjoyable!
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of prep time, plus 2.5 to 3 hours for baking the ribs. Then, you’ll spend around 15 minutes finishing them on the grill. In total, you can expect about 3 to 3.5 hours from start to scrumptious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will help your ribs become tender and delicious.
2. Making the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. This will be the flavorful marinade for your ribs!
3. Preparing the Ribs:
Take the racks of ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better. Look at the back of the ribs for a thin, shiny membrane. If you can, carefully remove it. This step allows more flavor to soak in!
4. Marinating the Ribs:
Rub the marinade all over the ribs, making sure they’re coated well. If you have time, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate them overnight for even more flavor.
5. Baking the Ribs:
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the marinated ribs on the sheet and cover them tightly with another piece of foil. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, until they’re really tender.
6. Grilling for Perfection:
Once the ribs are done baking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Carefully take the ribs out of the oven and remove the top layer of aluminum foil. If you like, brush them with some extra marinade for added flavor!
7. Searing the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the grill and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice caramelized and slightly charred exterior—this is where the magic happens!
8. Resting and Serving:
Once grilled, take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm alongside greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Easy Greek Ribs!
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Absolutely! Spare ribs will work just fine in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they might require a slightly longer cooking time in the oven, usually around 3 to 3.5 hours, until they’re tender. Enjoy the extra flavor!
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This Easy Greek Ribs recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your spices are free of any additives. Always double-check labels on your paprika and any marinades to ensure they meet gluten-free standards. Serve with gluten-free sides to keep it safe!
Can I Marinate the Ribs Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a fantastic option! In fact, it really helps the flavors to penetrate the meat. Just be sure to store the ribs in the refrigerator while marinating to keep them fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in a low oven until heated through, or pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to recapture that charred flavor!
