Just 6 Ingredients and 30 Seconds Prep
Bring the vibrant and aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with this simple yet incredibly versatile Mediterranean marinade. Works well with chicken, lamb, beef, seafood, and vegetables, this marinade brings together the essence of olive oil, zesty lemon juice, pungent garlic, and aromatic oregano.
This is a classic Mediterranean marinade that’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a wonderful balance of flavors. Perfect for any cooking occasion (on the grill, BBQ, baking, pan-frying), it brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen, giving a flavor boost to your meat and tenderizing it at the same time.
This recipe uses a few easy-to-find pantry staples and can be prepared in around 30 seconds (or less). The quantities in this recipe make enough marinade for a main meal for 4 so adjust as you need.
Table of contents:
How to Make Olive Oil & Lemon Mediterranean Marinade
Ingredients:
(Makes ¾ US Cup / 170ml)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (we prefer fine Pink Himalayan Salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
- Large Glass Bowl with Locking Lid or Silicone bags for food storage
- Whisk or fork
Instructions
- Add the olive oil and lemon juice to a small bowl, and whisk until you see the ingredients begin to emulsify. This should only take around 10 seconds.
- Add the minced garlic, ground oregano, and salt and pepper.
- Whisk again for another 10-20 seconds, or until you get the desired consistency.
- Marinate your favorite chicken. Seafood, meat, or veggie dish.
Cooking Notes:
- Fresh vs. Dried Oregano: While dried oregano is traditional and convenient, fresh oregano can be used for a more intense, vibrant flavor, depending on what you’ll be serving your meat or veg with. If using fresh, double the amount.
- Storage: This marinade can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Extra Zing: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor and a bit of tanginess.
More Healthy Mediterranean Recipes:
- Beet and Quinoa Salad with a Lime and Mustard dressing
- Mediterranean Pasta Salad + Tangy Lemon Herb Vinaigrette | Easy 20-Minute Recipe
- Fresh & Healthy Horiatiki Greek Salad + Easy Dressing Recipe
- Tabbouleh Salad Recipe: Light, Refreshing, and Delicious
- Classic Greek Salad with Kalamata Olives and Feta Cheese (Easy 5-Minute Recipe)
- Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese (Easy Summer Salad Recipe)
The ONLY Mediterranean Marinade You’ll Ever Need
Equipment
- Large Glass Bowl with Locking Lid
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt we prefer fine Pink Himalayan Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add the olive oil and lemon juice to a small bowl, and whisk until you see the ingredients begin to emulsify. This should only take around 10 seconds.1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Add the minced garlic, ground oregano, and salt and pepper.4 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Whisk again for around 30 seconds.
- Marinate your favorite chicken. Seafood, meat, or veggie dish.
Video
Notes
Cooking Notes and Tips:
- Fresh vs. Dried Oregano: While dried oregano is traditional and convenient, fresh oregano can be used for a more intense, vibrant flavor, depending on what you’ll be serving your meat or veg with. If using fresh, double the amount.
- Storage: This marinade can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Extra Zing: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor and a bit of tanginess.
