The humble gyro is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, and when done right, it can be a truly delicious meal. But why settle for just one type of gyro when you can have 17 more? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with our collection of savory gyro recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
From classic lamb gyros with creamy tzatziki sauce to innovative twists like gyro tacos with cilantro lime crema, there’s something for everyone in this mouth-watering roundup. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, we’ve got you covered with our diverse selection of recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of the beloved gyro.
So grab your apron, fire up your grill (or oven), and get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 18 savory gyro recipes that are sure to become new favorites!
Classic Lamb Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this authentic lamb gyro recipe, paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki Sauce (recipe below)
– Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and red onion wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together lamb, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Form into 4-6 skewers, depending on size desired.
3. Grill or broil lamb for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by slicing lamb into thin strips and placing onto pita breads with tzatziki sauce.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Gyro with Garlic Yogurt Dressing
Savor the flavors of Greece with this simple yet delicious recipe that combines juicy chicken, crispy pita bread, and a creamy garlic yogurt dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic Yogurt Dressing (recipe below)
Garlic Yogurt Dressing:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Marinate chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by slicing grilled chicken and serving on warm pita with Garlic Yogurt Dressing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Gyro with Fresh Herb Marinade
Transform your taste buds with this flavorful Beef Gyro recipe, infused with the freshness of herbs and spices. This classic street food gets a new twist with a homemade marinade that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as flank steak or thinly sliced top round), cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and lemon juice.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the beef for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by slicing the grilled beef thinly and serving it with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Vegetarian Gyro with Grilled Halloumi
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece and the Middle East in a delicious vegetarian gyro, topped with grilled halloumi cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pita bread
– 1/2 cup of hummus
– 1/4 cup of chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup of sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (vegetarian)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of halloumi cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the halloumi cheese for 30-45 seconds per side, until slightly charred.
3. Meanwhile, spread hummus on each pita bread slice.
4. Top with cucumber, bell pepper, feta cheese, and parsley.
5. Place a grilled slice of halloumi on top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pork Gyro with Spiced Tomato Sauce
This flavorful recipe combines tender pork, crispy pita bread, and a vibrant spiced tomato sauce for a delicious twist on the classic gyro. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Spiced Tomato Sauce (recipe below)
– Tzatziki sauce or yogurt for serving (optional)
Spiced Tomato Sauce:
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add pork slices; toss to coat.
3. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by placing grilled pork onto warmed pita breads, topping with spiced tomato sauce, and serving with tzatziki sauce or yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Gyro Bowl with Quinoa
This flavorful bowl combines the classic Mediterranean gyro with a nutritious quinoa base, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and parsley)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup marinated olives (such as Kalamata or green olives)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, feta cheese, red bell pepper, cucumber, and marinated olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gyro Pita Pocket with Cucumber Salad
A classic Greek-inspired street food, this Gyro Pita Pocket is filled with flavorful lamb and topped with a refreshing cucumber salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 pita breads
– Cucumber Salad (see below)
– Tzatziki sauce (optional)
Cucumber Salad:
– 2 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into 4-6 patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating on grill or in oven for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble Gyro Pita Pocket by placing lamb patty inside each pita, then topping with cucumber salad.
6. Serve immediately, with Tzatziki sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gyro Flatbread with Roasted Red Peppers
Transform your mealtime with this flavorful and satisfying gyro flatbread, topped with sweet and smoky roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of naan or pita bread
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place red bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, warm the naan or pita bread according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the flatbread by spreading a layer of roasted red peppers on each piece, followed by crumbled feta cheese (if using), parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gyro Wrap with Homemade Pickled Onions
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet delicious gyro wrap recipe, elevated by homemade pickled onions that add a tangy and crunchy twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef (or a combination of both)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4-6 pita breads
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Homemade Pickled Onions (see below)
Homemade Pickled Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Mix ground meat with chopped onion, garlic, and olive oil. Form into small patties.
3. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble wraps with grilled meat, feta cheese, and a spoonful of homemade pickled onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gyro Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this refreshing Gyro Salad featuring juicy lamb gyro meat, crunchy cucumber, and tangy lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked lamb gyro meat
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Lemon Vinaigrette (see below)
Lemon Vinaigrette:
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Slice the cooked lamb gyro meat into thin strips and add it to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Lemon Vinaigrette ingredients until smooth.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (excluding cooking time for lamb gyro meat)
Gyro Skewers with Mint Yogurt Dip
Savor the flavors of Greece with these tasty gyro skewers and refreshing mint yogurt dip. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
For the skewers:
– 1 pound lamb, beef, or chicken, cut into small pieces
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 wooden skewers
For the mint yogurt dip:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread meat, onion, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. For the dip, combine yogurt, mint, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve skewers hot with mint yogurt dip on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gyro Pizza with Feta Cheese
Elevate your pizza game with this creative combination of Greek and Italian flavors. Crispy pita crust, savory lamb or beef gyro filling, and a sprinkle of crumbly feta cheese come together in a harmonious union.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pita bread
– 1/2 cup gyro meat (lamb or beef)
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Split the pita bread in half lengthwise.
3. Spread tomato sauce on each pita half, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with gyro meat, mozzarella cheese, and feta cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the toppings.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gyro Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema
Get ready to revolutionize your taco game with these innovative Gyro Tacos, featuring juicy lamb and beef gyro meat wrapped in crispy tacos and topped with a zesty Cilantro Lime Crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb and beef gyro meat
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cilantro Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled feta cheese
Cilantro Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fry the gyro meat according to package instructions.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by placing gyro meat onto warmed tortillas.
4. Drizzle with Cilantro Lime Crema and add desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gyro Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of gyro meat with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a combination of both)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, cooked rice, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the gyro mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Gyro Meatballs with Tahini Sauce
Elevate your snack or party game with these flavorful gyro meatballs served in a rich and creamy tahini sauce. Perfect for dipping pita chips or veggies, this unique appetizer is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with tahini sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gyro Nachos with Melted Cheese
Take your favorite nacho recipe to the next level by adding the flavors of a traditional gyro. This unique combination will satisfy both your cravings and your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef, cooked and seasoned with oregano, garlic powder, and salt
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon cooked lamb or beef mixture over the chips, followed by feta cheese and diced tomatoes.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parsley.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Gyro Sliders with Mini Pita Buns
These bite-sized gyro sliders are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional gyros, perfect for parties or snacks. Crispy mini pita buns filled with juicy lamb and beef mixture, topped with creamy tzatziki sauce and crispy lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 mini pita buns
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, beef, olive oil, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a small patty.
4. Place patties on mini pita buns and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with tzatziki sauce and lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gyro Breakfast Hash with Poached Eggs
Start your day off right with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast hash. This recipe combines the savory flavors of gyro meat with crispy potatoes and scrambled eggs, topped with poached eggs for added richness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb gyro meat (such as lamb or beef)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook gyro meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Crack eggs into the skillet and scramble until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, poach eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until whites are set.
6. To assemble, place gyro meat mixture onto plates, top with scrambled eggs, and finish with poached eggs. Sprinkle with feta cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spin into flavor with these 18 savory gyro recipes! From classic lamb and chicken options to vegetarian and meat-lovers’ twists, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make mouthwatering tzatziki sauce, garlic yogurt dressing, and fresh herb marinades that will elevate your gyro game. Plus, get creative with unique variations like gyro pizza, tacos, and sliders. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds!
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