How Healthy Is a Souvlaki Meal?

Yassas, our beloved Greek food aficionados!

We know it's been a while, but we were marinating our thoughts all this time and preparing you a fresh portion of souvlaki-infused information. Today we'll buckle down the healthiness of our adored food and bring you some nutritious facts. Hope you're hungry...

And since you are what you eat (Homer), our dear Greek food lovers, feel free to munch on some souvlaki while feeding your brain with fresh knowledge ;P.

At first glance, souvlaki food might not seem like the healthiest food option, but truth be told, when cooked and eaten in the right way, souvlaki can and dare we say should be a great addition to a healthy diet.

Fresh Salads

Lettuce is a source of vitamin K, which helps strengthen bones. It also contains a significant amount of vitamin A, along with small amounts of vitamin C and iron. Vitamin A plays a major role in eye health and also helps prevent macular degeneration.

Tomatoes are low in calories and provide important nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. They're also rich in lycopene, antioxidants linked to several benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Onions contain many antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds. They have been linked to a reduced risk of cancer, lower blood sugar levels, and improved bone health. They also contain vitamin C, needed for immune function.

Often labelled as one of the most powerful disease-fighting plants, parsley provides great nutritional value and offers many potential health benefits. It contains vitamins A, C, and potassium.

Lean Proteins

One of the main reasons why souvlaki can be a healthy option is that it’s typically made with lean proteins like chicken breast, pork shoulder, or halloumi. The meats are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.

Due to its rich nutritional properties, halloumi cheese encourages bone and muscular development. In addition, since it is low in carbs and high in fats and proteins, it can be a part of the keto diet. It can also be a healthy meat substitute.

Healthier sauces

Tzatziki is a popular dip and spread used in Greek cooking. While it’s very creamy, it’s pretty low in calories, with about 35 calories in 2 tablespoons.

Tzatziki is made with strained Greek yoghurt, cucumbers, and olive oil.

Straining Greek yoghurt also reduces its lactose content and makes it higher in protein. Just 100 grams provide 10 grams of protein.

Protein is one of the most important nutrients for weight loss. It can help reduce appetite, regulate hunger hormones, and increase metabolism.

Cooking Methods Matter

Another factor that can determine whether souvlaki is a healthy option is how it’s cooked. Grilling or broiling the meat is a much healthier cooking method than frying it. This is because grilling or broiling allows excess fat to drip away from the meat, reducing the calorie and fat content of the dish. Additionally, using healthy oils like olive oil in moderation can also add flavour and health benefits to the dish.

Why is the Souvlaki a healthier grilled food alternative?

Because the souvlaki is marinated with mainly olive oil and lemon juice, it almost instantly becomes lower in fat. Some natural and organic herbs and spices are also added to intensify its flavour. The freshly squeezed lemon juice makes it figure-friendly and high in Vitamin C to boost the immune system. 

We hope you are convinced that your lunch is packed with all the goodness there is.

Kafka once said: "So long as you have food in your mouth, you have solved all questions for the time being". That's why we hope we motivated you enough to pop by to get some matters-what-you-eat-healthy-yumminess-wrap (or lunch box)!

Kali orexi!