Mediterranean Greek Beef Pita with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
This recipe brings together tender marinated beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce all wrapped in warm pita bread. It’s flavorful, balanced, and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. You can also turn it into a grain bowl by serving everything over rice instead of in pita.
Total Time: About 1 hour (including marinating)
Active Prep & Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Beef & Marinade
1 lb beef (top round or sirloin), thinly sliced
1 medium onion, grated or finely minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp harissa or smoked paprika (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
Garlic Yogurt Sauce
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
1 tsp dried dill weed (or 1 tbsp fresh)
½ tsp salt (to taste)
1 tbsp lemon juice
Other Components
4 pita breads, warmed
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1 cup chopped cucumber
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving
Optional: cooked rice or grains for a bowl version
Instructions
Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the grated onion, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, harissa (if using), olive oil, and lemon juice.
Add the thinly sliced beef and toss well. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, salt, and lemon juice until smooth.
Adjust seasoning and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cook the Beef
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Cook the marinated beef in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and just cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Assemble the Pitas
Warm pita bread. Spread a layer of garlic yogurt sauce on each.
Add a generous portion of beef, then top with chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Serve
Wrap up and enjoy immediately.
For a bowl version, layer rice or grains in a bowl, then top with beef, veggies, yogurt sauce, and herbs.
Tips & Variations
Beef Cut: Top round works well, but flank steak, sirloin, or even leftover roast beef can be used. Slice thin against the grain for tenderness.
Extra Flavor: Add a splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar to the marinade for a deeper taste.
Vegetable Options: Swap cucumber and tomato with shredded lettuce, red onion, or roasted peppers.
Make it Spicy: Use harissa paste, cayenne, or chili flakes in the marinade for heat.
Yogurt Sauce Twist: Replace dill with mint or parsley for a different herbal note. You can also mix in a little tahini for a creamier, nutty sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the pita and serve the beef and toppings over salad greens.
Bowl Version: Serve over rice, quinoa, or couscous instead of pita bread.
Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the beef the night before and store in the fridge. You can also prep the sauce and chopped veggies ahead of time for quick assembly.
Grill Version: For smoky flavor, grill the beef strips on skewers instead of pan-searing.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this with chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, chicken breast or thighs marinate and cook beautifully with the same seasonings.
Q: How long should I marinate the beef?
A: At least 30 minutes is enough for flavor, but 2–4 hours will give the best results.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. The garlic yogurt sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors actually get better as it sits.
Q: How do I keep the pita soft?
A: Wrap pita bread in foil and warm in the oven, or heat briefly in a skillet. Avoid microwaving too long, which makes it chewy.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: The cooked beef can be frozen for up to 2 months. The yogurt sauce and fresh veggies should be made fresh.
Nutrition
(per pita, approx.)
Based on 4 servings with pita, beef, veggies, and sauce.
Calories: ~430
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 16 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: ~680 mg
(Values will vary depending on beef cut, pita size, and added toppings.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Greek Beef Pita with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is fresh, satisfying, and versatile. The juicy marinated beef pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky yogurt and crisp vegetables, making it a complete meal you can serve in a pita wrap or a grain bowl. It’s a great option for meal prep, family dinners, or a healthier takeout-style meal at home.