Juicy marinated lamb grilled to perfection, wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh tomatoes and homemade creamy tzatziki. This bold and flavorful Greek street food classic is ideal for serious food lovers who crave authentic Mediterranean flair in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce combines bold spices, tender meat, and refreshing yogurt sauce in a satisfying handheld meal. The lamb is marinated to infuse flavor and grilled to perfection, giving each bite a smoky, savory depth. Balanced with the coolness of tzatziki and the crunch of fresh vegetables, these gyros are a culinary escape to the streets of Athens, all from your own kitchen. It’s a dish that delivers complexity without complication.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Lamb Marinade:
1 lb lamb shoulder or leg, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint, chopped
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt to taste

Assembly:
4 pita breads, warmed
1 large tomato, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish

directions

1. In a bowl, combine the sliced lamb with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. To prepare the tzatziki, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, chopped dill or mint, lemon juice, and salt. Chill until ready to use.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over high heat. Cook the marinated lamb slices for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
4. Warm the pita breads and spread each with a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce.
5. Add grilled lamb slices, tomato slices, and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Fold the pita and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 1 hour (including marination time)
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Gyros: Substitute lamb with boneless chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter version.
• Beef Gyros: Thin slices of sirloin or flank steak can be used in place of lamb.
• Vegetarian Option: Use grilled portobello mushrooms or seasoned chickpeas for a meat-free alternative.
• Different Herbs: Swap dill with mint or even basil for a twist in the tzatziki flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne to the marinade for some heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftover lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tzatziki can also be refrigerated separately for up to 3 days. To reheat the lamb, place it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving the tzatziki, as it can separate.

FAQs

What cut of lamb is best for gyros?

Lamb shoulder or leg works well due to its balance of flavor and tenderness. Ensure it’s thinly sliced for quick and even cooking.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours ahead. The longer the lamb marinates, the deeper the flavor.

Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt for tzatziki?

Greek yogurt is preferred for its thickness and tanginess, but strained regular yogurt can be used as a substitute.

Can I cook the lamb in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, broil the lamb slices on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes, turning once until slightly charred and cooked through.

What is the best way to warm pita bread?

You can warm pita on a skillet, in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes, or briefly in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Can I freeze the marinated lamb?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated lamb for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Is tzatziki gluten-free?

Yes, tzatziki is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your yogurt and seasoning labels to be sure.

What can I use instead of cucumber in tzatziki?

Grated zucchini or finely chopped celery can serve as alternatives if cucumber is not available.

Are these gyros suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prep the lamb, tzatziki, and toppings in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the tzatziki and ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free.

Conclusion

Grilled Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce is a hearty and flavor-packed dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal. With its savory grilled meat, refreshing yogurt sauce, and fresh toppings all wrapped in warm pita, this recipe delivers a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is a must-try classic.

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