Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a beloved Greek street food consisting of small, marinated pieces of meat (typically pork, chicken, or lamb) threaded onto skewers and grilled over charcoal. The meat is usually seasoned with a simple yet flavorful mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano before being served hot, often wrapped in a warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Souvlaki is a high-protein dish, providing a substantial amount of lean protein from the meat, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. A typical serving, including the meat and pita, generally ranges from 400 to 600 calories, with the fat content depending largely on the cut of meat and amount of oil used in the marinade.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	400 kcal
Protein	45 g
Carbs	2 g
Fat	22 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	700 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Phosphorus	300 mg
Zinc	6 mg
Iron	3 mg
Niacin (B3)	10 mg
Vitamin B6	0.8 mg
Vitamin B12	2.5 mcg
Selenium	35 mcg

Per 4 skewers (about 200 g meat) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, souvlaki is a quintessential social food in Greece, often enjoyed as a quick, affordable meal from street vendors or as part of a larger feast. Its simple, high-protein, and relatively low-carb nature (when eaten without the pita) makes it a naturally satisfying and balanced option that has been a staple for centuries.