Vegan Greek Gyros: A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic

Tender, well-seasoned slices, warm pita bread, and plenty of fresh toppings — Greek gyros are street food perfection. But you don’t need meat to enjoy the bold flavors of this classic. Vegan Greek gyros use plant-based proteins and the same authentic seasonings to deliver all the taste and texture you love, completely meat-free.

This guide shows you exactly how to make flavorful vegan gyros at home, from marinade to assembly.

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Why Try vegan Greek gyros?

Traditional gyros are made with layers of pork, chicken, or lamb cooked on a vertical rotisserie. For a vegan version, we replace the meat with hearty plant proteins like marinated seitan, soy curls, or firm tofu. The marinade is what makes it special — oregano, garlic, lemon, and olive oil bring that unmistakable Greek flavor.

Ingredients

For the plant-based protein:
1 block firm tofu, sliced, or 2 cups seitan strips or soy curls

For the marinade:
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper

For serving:
4–6 warm pita breads
Sliced tomatoes, red onions, lettuce
Vegan tzatziki (use coconut or almond yogurt)
Fresh parsley or dill

How to Make Vegan Gyros

Slice your protein into thin strips. If using soy curls, soak them in warm water until rehydrated, then squeeze dry.

Whisk marinade ingredients in a bowl. Toss the protein in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least an hour — longer for deeper flavor.

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated strips until lightly browned and crisp around the edges.

Warm pita bread briefly in a dry pan or oven.

Assemble by adding your seared vegan gyro filling to the pita. Top with sliced tomatoes, onions, lettuce, fresh herbs, and a generous spoonful of vegan tzatziki.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Gyros

Press tofu well before marinating so it soaks up flavor
Don’t skip resting time — marinating makes all the difference
Pan-sear until edges are slightly crisp for the best texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve vegan gyros warm with a side of oven-baked fries, a crisp Greek salad, or extra vegan tzatziki for dipping.

Pair with Greek Starters and Tzatziki or include in your Modern Greek Recipes Collection.

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