Gyros with Cucumber Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Gyros with Cucumber Sauce bring the vibrant, mouthwatering flavors of Greek cuisine right to your table. With tender, juicy meat, perfectly seasoned and grilled, served in a warm pita and topped with a refreshing cucumber sauce, this dish offers a delightful mix of savory, tangy, and cool elements. Gyros are a popular street food that has gained global popularity for their unique combination of flavors, making them perfect for casual meals, gatherings, or as a quick weeknight dinner.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to prepare these delicious gyros, as well as tips for making them at home. Whether you’re using lamb, chicken, or pork, this dish is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Plus, the homemade cucumber sauce (often referred to as tzatziki) is the perfect cool and creamy complement to the spiced meat.

Why You’ll Love Gyros with Cucumber Sauce

• Savory, Flavorful Meat: The well-seasoned meat, whether lamb, chicken, or pork, is grilled to perfection, creating a juicy, tender bite that bursts with Mediterranean spices. The herbs, garlic, and spices used in the marinade make it irresistible.
• Crisp, Refreshing Cucumber Sauce: The cucumber sauce (tzatziki) is the highlight of the dish, adding a cool, creamy contrast to the spiced meat. The yogurt, cucumber, and garlic provide the perfect balance to the richness of the grilled meat.
• Customizable for Different Preferences: Gyros can be made with different types of meat, so whether you’re a fan of lamb, chicken, or pork, you can tailor this recipe to your tastes. Additionally, the toppings and sauce can be adjusted for a personalized flavor.
• Quick and Easy to Make: While the flavor may seem complex, the preparation is relatively simple. You can marinate the meat ahead of time, grill or cook it, and assemble the gyros in just a few steps. It’s a great weeknight meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare.
• Ideal for Gatherings or Quick Meals: Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a fast yet satisfying meal, gyros with cucumber sauce are always a hit.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (for the meat marinade and cucumber sauce)
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for the meat)
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per gyro, depending on the type of meat and portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 25-28g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 25-28g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Gyros:

• 1 lb (450g) of lamb, chicken, or pork (your choice of meat)
• 4 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cucumber Sauce (Tzatziki):

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)
• 1 small cucumber, grated or finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade for the Meat

Start by preparing the marinade for the meat. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Cut the meat (whether lamb, chicken, or pork) into thin slices or strips for easy cooking and even seasoning. Add the sliced meat to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight if you have the time. Marinating the meat allows the flavors to fully develop, making it more tender and flavorful.

2. Prepare the Cucumber Sauce (Tzatziki)

While the meat is marinating, prepare the cucumber sauce (tzatziki). In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated or finely chopped cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and fresh dill (if using). Mix everything together until well combined.

Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If you like a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add an extra clove of garlic. The sauce should be creamy, tangy, and refreshing to balance the rich flavor of the grilled meat. Cover the sauce and refrigerate it until ready to serve.

3. Cook the Meat

Once the meat has marinated, it’s time to cook it. Heat a large grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan if needed to prevent the meat from sticking.

Cook the marinated meat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. The meat should be tender and juicy on the inside while slightly crispy on the edges. Depending on the type of meat you choose, the cooking time may vary. Chicken, for example, may cook faster than lamb or pork.

4. Warm the Pitas

While the meat is cooking, warm the pita breads or flatbreads. You can do this by placing them on a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until slightly crisp and warmed through. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

5. Assemble the Gyros

To assemble the gyros, lay a warm pita bread on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the cooked meat onto the center of the pita. Top with a few tablespoons of the cucumber sauce (tzatziki) and any additional toppings you like. Popular toppings for gyros include sliced tomatoes, red onions, lettuce, and feta cheese.

6. Serve the Gyros

Fold the pita around the fillings and serve the gyros immediately while they’re still warm. You can serve them as is or with a side of fries, a Greek salad, or more tzatziki sauce for dipping./

Tips for Perfect Gyros with Cucumber Sauce

• Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your gyros will shine if you use fresh, quality ingredients. Choose fresh, tender meat, high-quality Greek yogurt for the cucumber sauce, and fresh herbs and spices.
• Marinate the Meat: The longer the meat marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be. If possible, marinate the meat overnight to let the spices really soak in.
• Grill or Sear for Maximum Flavor: While grilling is ideal for gyros, you can also cook the meat in a grill pan or skillet. Just be sure to get a good sear on the meat to develop that delicious caramelization.
• Customize the Sauce: You can adjust the tzatziki sauce by adding more garlic or lemon juice to match your flavor preferences. Some people like to add mint for an extra refreshing touch, or even a dash of white wine vinegar.
• Toppings Are Key: Toppings can really elevate the flavor of your gyros. Try adding freshly chopped tomatoes, onions, lettuce, or even Kalamata olives for an extra Mediterranean twist.

Variations of Gyros with Cucumber Sauce

• Chicken Gyros: Chicken gyros are lighter and leaner than lamb or pork, making them a great option for those who prefer poultry. Simply swap out the lamb or pork for chicken breasts or thighs and follow the same preparation and cooking steps.
• Vegetarian Gyros: For a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish, replace the meat with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. These can be marinated in olive oil and herbs before grilling for a savory, satisfying alternative.
• Spicy Gyros: If you prefer your gyros with a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for the meat. You can also add a spicy element to the tzatziki sauce by stirring in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
• Gyros with Feta Cheese: Top your gyros with crumbled feta cheese for a traditional Greek touch. The briny flavor of feta pairs wonderfully with the savory meat and the cool cucumber sauce.

Storage and Shelf Life

Gyros are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the components for later use. Store any leftover grilled meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The tzatziki sauce can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat the meat, gently warm it in a skillet or microwave, and serve with freshly heated pita bread and cold tzatziki sauce. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked meat for up to 2 months.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Gyros with Cucumber Sauce

Pair these gyros with complementary Mediterranean dishes to enhance the experience:

• Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese makes an excellent side dish for gyros. The refreshing salad balances the richness of the meat and cucumber sauce.
• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Serve your gyros with crispy fries for a delicious, satisfying side. You can even try sweet potato fries for a slightly sweet contrast to the savory gyros.
• Pita Chips with Hummus: Add some pita chips and a side of hummus for a light, healthy snack or appetizer.
• Grilled Vegetables: Complement your gyros with grilled vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or peppers. Their smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the spiced meat and creamy tzatziki.

Print

Conclusion

Gyros with cucumber sauce offer a delicious combination of savory meat, refreshing cucumber sauce, and warm pita, all seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these gyros will impress your guests with their bold flavors and satisfying texture. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the taste of Greece in the comfort of your own home with these flavorful and customizable gyros!