These Easy Greek Ribs are so tasty! They get a delicious flavor boost from a mix of herbs, garlic, and lemon juice. First, they’re baked to perfection, then grilled for that lovely char.
Not to mention, the smell in your kitchen will make everyone hungry! I love serving them with a side of fresh salad—it’s a hit at my BBQs! Just watch, they disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are tender and meaty, perfect for baking and grilling. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs or St. Louis style ribs work well too. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: It adds richness and helps meld the flavors. You can substitute it with avocado oil or any mild oil if needed. I love using extra virgin for its fuller taste.
Dried Oregano: This is essential for that Greek flavor. If you’re out of oregano, Italian seasoning is a good alternative. Fresh herbs can also be used, just double the amount since they’re milder.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed gives the best taste, but bottled lemon juice is okay too. Lime juice is a nice alternative if you’re in a pinch!
Honey: It balances the flavors and provides a slight sweetness. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you’re vegan or out of honey!
How Do You Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is key to enhancing flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by placing the ribs meat-side down on a cutting board.
- Look for a thin membrane on the back. Use a knife to gently lift one end of the membrane.
- Grab the membrane with a paper towel for better grip and pull it off. It’ll come off in one piece if you’re lucky!
This simple step allows the marinade to penetrate the meat better, giving you deliciously flavored ribs.
Easy Greek Ribs (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnish
- Optional: Tzatziki sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the marinade and ribs, and then bake them for 2.5 to 3 hours. After baking, grilling will take about 10-14 minutes. So plan for around 3 hours in total for delicious Greek ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) so it’s nice and hot when the ribs are ready. While it’s heating up, grab a small bowl and mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin. This mixture will be your tasty marinade!
2. Get the Ribs Ready:
Next, you’ll need to prepare the ribs. Carefully remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs. This helps the flavors soak in better. Once that’s done, lay the ribs out on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. This makes cleanup easier too!
3. Marinate the Ribs:
Brush your marinade generously over both sides of the ribs, making sure every bit is coated deliciously. Then, cover the ribs tightly with another piece of aluminum foil. This keeps all the moisture in while baking.
4. Bake Until Tender:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the covered ribs in your preheated oven and let them cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they’re nice and tender.
5. Grill for Extra Flavor:
Once the ribs are finished baking, it’s time to fire up your grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. Carefully take the ribs out of the oven and unveil the foil. Transfer the ribs onto the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. This will give you that beautiful caramelization and char that makes them extra tasty.
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, take the ribs off the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. If you’d like, garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Greek-style ribs!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Yes! While this recipe is perfect for baby back ribs, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness and type of ribs. Always ensure they are tender before transferring to the grill.
Can I Marinate the Ribs Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the ribs overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to cover them tightly in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, even a few hours of marination will still provide great flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
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. This helps maintain tenderness without drying them out.
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Grill?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the ribs in the oven instead. After baking, place them on a baking sheet and broil for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they develop a nice char. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
