Barbecue Glazed Ribs with Mediterranean Salad
Description:
A flavorful and juicy barbecue-glazed pork ribs dish paired with a fresh Mediterranean salad made of creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and crisp lettuce. The perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors!
🍴 Ingredients:
For the Ribs:
✅ 2 lbs (900g) pork ribs
✅ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
✅ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
✅ 1 teaspoon onion powder
✅ 1 teaspoon salt
✅ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✅ ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
✅ 1 tablespoon olive oil
✅ ½ cup barbecue sauce
✅ 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for extra caramelization)
For the Mediterranean Salad:
✅ 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
✅ 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
✅ ½ cup mixed olives (black and green)
✅ 1 avocado (sliced)
✅ ¼ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
✅ 2 tablespoons green onions (chopped)
✅ 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
✅ 1 lime (cut into wedges)
For the Dressing:
✅ 3 tablespoons olive oil
✅ 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
✅ 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
✅ 1 teaspoon honey
✅ Salt & black pepper to taste
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2️⃣ Pat dry the ribs and rub them with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
3️⃣ Drizzle olive oil over the ribs and massage the seasoning into the meat.
4️⃣ Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and place them on a baking tray.
5️⃣ Bake for 2.5 hours until tender.
Step 2: Glaze & Grill the Ribs
6️⃣ Remove the ribs from the oven and increase the heat to 400°F (200°C).
7️⃣ Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce mixed with honey.
8️⃣ Place them on a grill (or back in the oven) and cook for 10-15 minutes until caramelized.
Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Salad
9️⃣ In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
🔟 Arrange sliced avocado on top and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
Step 4: Make the Dressing & Serve
1️⃣1️⃣ Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
1️⃣2️⃣ Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly.
1️⃣3️⃣ Serve the ribs with the Mediterranean salad and lime wedges on the side.
🍽️ Servings:
Serves 4 people
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values
✅ Calories: 550-600 kcal
✅ Protein: 35g
✅ Carbohydrates: 20g
✅ Fats: 40g
✅ Fiber: 6g
✅ Sugar: 8g
✅ Sodium: Moderate
💡 Notes & Tips:
✔️ Make it spicier by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue glaze.
✔️ Oven vs. Grill: If you don’t have a grill, finish the ribs under a broiler for a crispy top.
✔️ Marination Tip: Marinate the ribs overnight for extra flavor.
✔️ Dressing Alternative: Try a lemon-garlic vinaigrette for a different twist.
✔️ Make it keto-friendly by using a sugar-free barbecue sauce.
🥗 Health Benefits:
🔹 Pork ribs provide high-quality protein and essential B vitamins.
🔹 Avocado is packed with heart-healthy fats and fiber.
🔹 Olives are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
🔹 Feta cheese offers calcium and probiotics for gut health.
🔹 Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C.
🙋 Q&A:
Q: Can I make this dish with beef ribs?
A: Yes! Just adjust the cooking time as beef ribs might need 3-4 hours in the oven.
Q: What can I use instead of barbecue sauce?
A: You can use a homemade mix of tomato paste, vinegar, honey, and spices.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store ribs and salad separately in airtight containers. Ribs last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! Cook the ribs ahead, then reheat and glaze before serving.
Would you like any modifications or additional serving ideas? 😊