Italian-style Souvlaki

Ingredients

While the original Greek Souvlaki is typically marinated in lemon juice and oregano, this Italian adaptation infuses the meat with flavors of garlic, rosemary, and balsamic vinegar. The accompanying vegetables are also given an Italian twist with the addition of sun-dried tomatoes and olives. We alse have the original recipe for Souvlaki, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 10 cherry tomatoes 10 cherry tomatoes
• 10 pitted black olives 10 pitted black olives
• 10 sun-dried tomatoes, soaked in warm water and drained 10 sun-dried tomatoes, soaked in warm water and drained
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (Sugars: 5g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and sun-dried tomatoes onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between ingredients.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Ensure the chicken is cut into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
• Sun-dried tomatoes — Soaking the sun-dried tomatoes in warm water helps to soften them and enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with cubes of firm tofu or halloumi cheese.
• Serve the Italian-style Souvlaki with a side of fresh Italian bread or grilled polenta.
• If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Customize the vegetable selection based on your preferences and seasonal availability.
• Drizzle the skewers with a balsamic glaze before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Italian-style Souvlaki skewers hot off the grill. Accompany them with a side of Italian salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, placing them diagonally for an appealing visual presentation. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the skewers for a pop of color.