Greek Marinade
Ingredients
- 1 mediumlemon
- 4 clovesgarlic
minced
- 8 sprigsfresh thyme
leaves stripped, discard stalks), (roughly 2 teaspoons of leaves
- 1 ½ tbspextra virgin olive oil)
(notes 1
- 2 tspsalt
- 2 tspdried oregano
- 1 ½ tspsweet paprika
- ¼ tspdried chilli flakes
optional, red pepper flakes
Directions
- 1
Zest then juice the lemon. Add 2 teaspoons of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to a large bowl (if there isn't enough juice in your lemon, you can make up the difference with a little white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar).
- 2
Add the remaining marinade ingredients - garlic, thyme leaves, olive oil, salt, oregano, paprika and dried chilli flakes. Mix well.
- 3
Add the meat and toss to coat well. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. See the post for suggested marinating times.
- 4
When ready to cook, simply lift out the meat and cook - no need to blot or drain.
- 5
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Greek Marinade
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About this Recipe
Looking for the secret to perfectly tender, flavorful meat that transports your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean? This simple Greek marinade is your answer, effortlessly infusing lamb, chicken, pork, and beef with a burst of authentic Greek taste.
The magic of this marinade lies in its harmonious blend of bright, zesty lemon, pungent fresh garlic, aromatic fresh thyme, and earthy dried oregano. These ingredients work in synergy, creating a balanced flavor profile that deeply penetrates your chosen protein. The inclusion of extra virgin olive oil helps tenderize, ensuring juicy results every time.
When you use this Greek marinade, you can expect your meat to emerge incredibly succulent and vibrant. The lemon and olive oil tenderize the fibers, while the generous dose of herbs and spices builds layers of savory and slightly piquant notes, particularly with the optional chilli flakes. It’s an easy yet impactful way to elevate your cooking, turning ordinary cuts into extraordinary, restaurant-quality meals without fuss.
This versatile Greek marinade is perfect for a variety of dishes. While exceptional for Greek lamb marinade, it shines equally bright as a Greek chicken marinade. Feel free to adjust the dried chilli flakes to your preference, making it milder or spicier. If you don't have fresh thyme, while recommended, you can use dried thyme, though the fresh sprigs offer a brighter flavor.
This vibrant marinade is ideal for weeknight grilling, slow-roasted weekend dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with rich, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. It’s the essential foundation for memorable, mouthwatering meals.