A Taste of Summer on a Stick
There’s something timeless and comforting about the aroma of sizzling skewers over an open flame. It brings back memories of warm evenings, laughter under the stars, and vibrant platters of grilled delights shared with loved ones. Growing up in a household where every summer was punctuated by backyard barbecues, skewers were always the highlight. My grandmother, a master of Mediterranean cooking, taught me that the secret to mouthwatering barbecue lies in simplicity, fresh ingredients, and a pinch of love.
This recipe for Delicious Barbecue Skewers is my tribute to those joyful gatherings. It’s bursting with colorful vegetables, tender marinated meat, and bold spices — a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.
Why You’ll Love These Skewers
- Fresh and Flavorful: Packed with herbs, citrus, and garlic.
- Tender and Juicy: Thanks to a yogurt-based marinade.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Easy to prep ahead for summer parties.
- Versatile: Mix up the proteins and veggies for endless combos.
- Mediterranean-Inspired: Think garlic, olive oil, oregano, and sumac.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp sumac (optional but authentic!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Skewers:
- 500g (1.1 lbs) boneless chicken thighs, cubed (or lamb or beef)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, quartered
- Cherry tomatoes
- Wooden or metal skewers
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Skewers (soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes)
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Basting brush (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Meat
In a large bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Add the cubed meat, toss to coat thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
Tip: The yogurt tenderizes the meat while the spices soak in deep flavor.
2. Prep the Vegetables
Chop the peppers, zucchini, and onion into skewer-sized pieces. Keep cherry tomatoes whole. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread marinated meat and vegetables alternately onto skewers. Be playful with the colors for a vibrant look.
4. Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill the skewers for about 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked and slightly charred.
Pro Tip: Brush with leftover marinade during grilling for added moisture and flavor (only during the first few minutes to avoid contamination).
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with warm pita, a drizzle of tahini or garlic sauce, and a crisp cucumber salad on the side.
Make It Your Own: Variations & Tips
Protein Swaps:
- Lamb: Traditional and flavorful. Pairs beautifully with rosemary.
- Beef: Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye.
- Tofu or Halloumi: Great vegetarian options that hold up on the grill.
Veggie Add-Ins:
- Eggplant slices
- Mushrooms
- Corn chunks
Sauce Pairings:
- Tzatziki: Cool and creamy.
- Harissa Yogurt: For a spicy kick.
- Chimichurri: A tangy herb sauce that adds a punch.
What to Serve With Barbecue Skewers
Lemon Herb Couscous
Light, fluffy couscous tossed with lemon zest, parsley, and olive oil.
Cucumber Mint Yogurt Salad
Refreshing and cool, it balances the smoky skewers perfectly.
Grilled Flatbread
Warm, slightly charred flatbread for wrapping or scooping.
Wine & Drink Pairings
- White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Red Wine: A young Grenache or Zinfandel.
- Non-Alcoholic: Mint lemonade or pomegranate iced tea.
Delicious Barbecue Skewers FAQs
Q: Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
A: Absolutely! Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Q: Can I make them in advance?
A: Yes! You can marinate and assemble them a day ahead. Just grill before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or eat cold in wraps or salads.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, these Delicious Barbecue Skewers bring sunshine to your plate. They’re a celebration of fresh, bold flavors that honor the Mediterranean tradition of simple, soulful cooking. Try them once, and they’ll become your summer go-to — just like they are in my family.
“Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.” – Harriet Van Horne