Juicy grilled lamb skewers served with warm pita, creamy hummus, herby tabbouleh, and a bright tomato salad—this rustic mezze board is a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavors. Ideal for gatherings, this platter invites guests to mix and match bites, enjoying a dynamic and satisfying meal full of texture and spice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This mezze platter is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The grilled lamb skewers are richly marinated and perfectly charred, offering deep flavor and tenderness. Paired with a variety of dips, fresh salads, and warm bread, it brings both comfort and complexity to the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a summer cookout, or just looking for a hearty yet balanced dish, this platter is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Lamb Skewers:

• 1.5 lbs lamb leg or shoulder, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

For the Mezze Platter:

• 1 cup hummus
• 1 cup baba ghanoush or extra hummus
• 1 cup tabbouleh
• 1/2 cup tomato salad (diced tomatoes, olive oil, parsley, lemon juice)
• 4–6 pita breads, quartered and lightly toasted
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Paprika or sumac for garnish

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the lamb cubes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Thread the marinated lamb pieces onto skewers.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is nicely charred and cooked to your desired doneness.
5. While grilling, warm the pita bread on the grill or in a dry skillet until soft and slightly toasted.
6. Assemble the mezze platter by placing the grilled lamb skewers at the center of a large board or serving dish.
7. Arrange the hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, tomato salad, and pita bread around the lamb.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the hummus and garnish with a pinch of paprika or sumac.
9. Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4–6 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (or overnight)
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Chicken or Beef Skewers: Substitute lamb with cubed chicken thighs or beef sirloin. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Grain Bowl Style: Serve over a base of couscous, rice, or quinoa for a deconstructed mezze bowl.
• Spice Blend Substitutes: Use ras el hanout or za’atar for a different Middle Eastern spice profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace lamb skewers with grilled halloumi, marinated tofu, or vegetable skewers.
• Extra Sauces: Add a side of tzatziki, garlic sauce, or tahini drizzle for more dipping variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover lamb skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Dips like hummus and baba ghanoush can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Tabbouleh and tomato salad are best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Pita bread should be stored in a sealed bag and reheated briefly on a skillet or in the oven to regain softness.

FAQs

Can I grill the lamb skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill them in advance and reheat gently before serving. However, they’re best enjoyed fresh off the grill for optimal juiciness.

What cut of lamb is best for skewers?

Lamb leg or shoulder works well due to its balance of lean meat and fat, which helps keep the skewers tender and flavorful.

Can I use store-bought dips for the platter?

Absolutely. Good-quality store-bought hummus, baba ghanoush, or tabbouleh can save time without sacrificing taste.

How do I keep wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The lamb skewers and dips are naturally gluten-free. Use gluten-free pita or substitute with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks.

What wine pairs well with this mezze platter?

A medium-bodied red like Syrah or a dry rosé pairs nicely with the bold flavors of grilled lamb and Mediterranean spices.

Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning once, or broil for a charred finish.

How long should I marinate the lamb?

Marinate for at least 1 hour, but for best flavor, allow 6–8 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze leftover lamb?

Yes, cooked lamb can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I make it kid-friendly?

Reduce or omit spices like paprika and cumin, and include milder dips such as plain yogurt alongside the platter.

Conclusion

The Grilled Lamb Skewers Mezze Platter brings together rich, spiced meat with vibrant Mediterranean sides, creating a visually stunning and deeply satisfying meal. Whether served for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this mezze board offers a balance of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your guests. Versatile, customizable, and packed with authentic taste, it’s a modern take on communal dining done right.

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