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Paleo Herbed Pork Skewers

When it comes to easy, flavour-packed meals that celebrate summer, these Paleo Herbed Pork Skewers are hard to beat. Not only do they bring a punch of herbaceous taste, but they’re also quick to prepare and ideal for make-ahead cooking. This makes them perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining, or batch-prepping for the week ahead. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply wanting something different for dinner, these skewers are a standout choice.

The beauty of skewers lies in their simplicity. With minimal prep and fuss, you can have an impressive, nourishing meal that looks as good as it tastes. Pork is a wonderfully lean protein, and when paired with fresh herbs and a touch of olive oil, it transforms into a dish that’s both satisfying and perfectly aligned with a Paleo lifestyle.

herbed pork skewers kebabs marinate barbecue bbq recipe paleo diet
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5 from 1 vote

Recipe: herbed pork skewers

Discover the ultimate herbed pork skewers recipe. Perfect for a paleo BBQ, these skewers are easy to make, delicious, and packed with fresh herb flavours.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Barbecue, Paleo
Keyword: Easy Pork Skewers, Herbed Pork Skewers, Paleo BBQ
Servings: 6 Serves
Calories: 220kcal
Cost: $25

Equipment

  • Skewers
  • Barbecue grill

Ingredients

  • 750 g pork fillets
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • Dash of extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of a lemon

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork into small cubes, ensuring all the cubes are of similar size to ensure even cooking.
  • Mix the Herbs: In a bowl, combine the fresh parsley, sage, and rosemary.
  • Marinate: In a large bowl, mix the pork cubes with the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and the herb mixture. Ensure the pork is evenly coated with the marinade. Refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavours to meld.
  • Thread on Skewers: Once marinated, thread the pork cubes onto skewers, ready for grilling.
  • Barbecue: Grill the pork skewers on a barbecue until they are tender and cooked through, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Serve hot.

Why Fresh Herbs Make a Difference

Fresh herbs aren’t just for garnish — they’re essential for flavour. While dried herbs have their place in the kitchen, fresh herbs offer a vibrancy and complexity that simply can’t be matched. In this recipe, the combination of rosemary, thyme, parsley, and oregano adds depth and freshness that complements the pork beautifully. If you're growing your own herbs, even better. Use what’s in season and flourishing in your garden. Basil, sage, or even mint can offer exciting variations.

Tips for the Perfect Skewers

  • Choose quality pork: Pork loin or shoulder trimmed into chunks works best. Choose a cut that isn’t too lean so it stays juicy.
  • Soak wooden skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
  • Marinate well: Allow at least 1–2 hours of marinating time in the fridge. You can even leave them overnight for maximum flavour.
  • Cook on high heat: A hot barbecue or grill pan helps develop a nice char while locking in the juices.

Serving Suggestions

These pork skewers are incredibly versatile. Serve them with a big green salad for a refreshing summer dinner, or pair with grilled vegetables like zucchini, capsicum, and red onion. If you’re after something more filling, try a side of roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice. For a flavour boost, drizzle with a squeeze of lemon or serve with a simple herb sauce made with extra herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Entertaining

Whether you’re cooking just for yourself or hosting guests, these skewers deliver. They can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, making them ideal for fuss-free entertaining. Leftovers keep well too — simply store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re great cold or gently reheated, making them a useful addition to lunchboxes or post-workout meals.

Get Creative with Marinades and Variations

Once you’ve made these once, you’ll want to experiment. Try adding crushed garlic, a little lemon zest, or chilli flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist. Swap the herbs depending on what you have on hand — or even incorporate different spices or blends like Cajun or Middle Eastern flavours. You could also alternate the pork on the skewers with chunks of capsicum, zucchini, or mushroom for added variety and nutrition.

The Nutritional Benefits of Herbed Pork Skewers

Pork is a rich source of protein and B vitamins, particularly thiamine, which plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. When combined with antioxidant-rich herbs, healthy fats from olive oil, and served alongside a colourful array of vegetables, this meal is balanced and nourishing. For those following a strict Paleo diet, this recipe ticks all the boxes — free from grains, dairy, and refined sugars, while delivering maximum flavour.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?

This herbed pork skewer recipe stands out not just for its taste, but for its simplicity and adaptability. It's an ideal recipe to whip up when time is short but you still want to serve something impressive and wholesome. By using simple, real-food ingredients and fresh herbs, you’re creating a dish that feels gourmet but doesn’t require any complex techniques or long ingredient lists.

Ideas for Your Next Barbecue

When planning your next barbecue, consider offering a skewer bar with different options. These herbed pork skewers could be the centrepiece, joined by other variations like beef and mushroom, chicken satay, or vegetable-only options for variety. Offer a range of Paleo-friendly dips like guacamole, tahini-lemon dressing, or a spicy salsa for dipping.

Share Your Skewer Creations

I’d love to hear how you made these your own. Did you try a different herb combination or add some vegetables to the skewers? Maybe you used the same marinade for a different protein? Share your tweaks and tips in the comments below so we can all get inspired for our next barbecue feast.

For more barbecue inspiration, check out our full range of Paleo barbecue recipes. Don’t forget to explore ways to use your homegrown herbs, and be sure to store your spices properly to maximise flavour and longevity.

Enjoy your skewers, and happy Paleo grilling!

herbed pork skewers kebabs marinate barbecue bbq recipe paleo diet

Paleo Barbecue Recipes

We've finally started to have a few sunny days – the perfect time to get the barbecue out and try out some Paleo Barbecue Recipes!

There were a few recipes I’d wanted to try in Mark Sisson’s cookbook, The Primal Blueprint Cookbook, which had been waiting for some sunshine.  I amended the recipes according to which ingredients I could get – and what I already had in my kitchen.

I managed to get hold of some turkey (I don’t know why it’s not more popular in Australia?), an essential ingredient in the Turkey Kebabs I wanted to make.  I also made Green Chili Burgers, based on a recipe in the book.  Sadly mine were made with regular beef and not bison as the recipe suggests (another type of meat I've not seen in Australia).

Turkey Kebabs

Ingredients:

200g minced (ground) turkey
1 egg (I'm using omega 3 enriched eggs at the moment)
1 tablespoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, cumin, paprika & salt
¼ teaspoon of cinnamon & cayenne pepper
1 spoon of olive oil
 

Method:

It doesn't get much simpler!  I simply added the ingredients (except the oil) to the food processor and blended until everything was well mixed in.  I then formed the meat into kebabs on wooden skewers and coated with a little olive oil.

paleo-turkey-kebabs-barbecue_recipes

The kebabs were then barbecued until cooked thoroughly.

Burgers

Ingredients:

200g minced (ground) beef
1 teaspoon dried chilli
2 tablespoons coriander (cilantro)
Half a small finely diced onion
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chilli powder & salt
2 eggs
paleo-burger-ingredients-barbecue_ingredients

Method:

I put everything except the eggs in the food processor and blended well.  I then formed the meat into burger shapes and cooked thoroughly on the barbecue.  Whilst the burgers were cooking I fried the eggs and served them on top of the burgers.

paleo-burgers-barbecue_recipes

Along with the meat, I made a simple salad to complete the meal.

With it being this easy to make burgers and kebabs, I don’t know why anyone would buy them ready-made!

Expanding Your Paleo Barbecue Menu

Once you've mastered Paleo-friendly burgers and kebabs, there’s an entire world of barbecue recipes to explore. From marinades to grilled vegetables and even Paleo desserts, summer barbecuing doesn’t have to mean compromising on real food values. In fact, the barbecue is one of the easiest ways to prepare nutrient-dense meals with minimal fuss, maximum flavour, and no need to heat up the kitchen.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Herb Dressing

Vegetable skewers are an excellent side dish or main in their own right, especially when paired with a vibrant, herby sauce. Use whatever is in season — zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and capsicum all grill beautifully. Toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling, and finish with a drizzle of herb dressing made with fresh parsley, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt. This complements the richness of grilled meats and adds colour to the plate.

Barbecued Chicken Thighs with Smoky Paprika Marinade

Chicken thighs are one of the juiciest cuts for barbecuing and tend to be more forgiving than chicken breast. For a smoky twist, marinate them for a few hours in a mix of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lemon zest, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. The natural fat content in the thighs helps keep them moist and full of flavour, and they’re perfect alongside a fresh salad or grilled sweet potato wedges.

Stuffed Capsicum on the Grill

Stuffed capsicum (bell peppers) are another versatile addition to your Paleo barbecue spread. Cut in half and deseed them, then fill with a mix of cooked ground beef, finely chopped spinach, garlic, diced tomatoes, herbs, and a spoon of almond meal or crushed pumpkin seeds for texture. Wrap in foil and place directly on the barbecue, or use a grill-safe dish. After 10–15 minutes, you’ll have a rich, satisfying side or light main course.

Paleo Barbecue Sauces and Dips

Traditional barbecue sauces are often packed with sugar, soy, and preservatives, so why not make your own? A simple Paleo-friendly sauce can be made by blending tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, and a dash of honey or dates for sweetness. Simmer until thickened and brush it onto your meats during the last few minutes of grilling for a sticky, flavour-packed finish.

You can also prepare dips like guacamole, baba ganoush, or a cashew and roasted capsicum spread to serve with veggie sticks or grilled meat. These add depth and richness to your barbecue and work brilliantly as toppings for your homemade burgers or kebabs.

Grilled Fruit Skewers for Dessert

Fruit may not be the first thing that comes to mind when barbecuing, but it can be a delicious and refreshing dessert option. Thread chunks of pineapple, peach, banana, and even watermelon onto skewers and grill lightly until caramelised. Serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream and a dusting of cinnamon for a naturally sweet treat that still feels indulgent.

Tips for a Stress-Free Paleo Barbecue

  • Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and prepare salads in advance so you can relax once the barbecue is lit.
  • Use a meat thermometer: This takes the guesswork out of grilling, especially for chicken or larger cuts.
  • Choose quality meat: Where possible, use grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken, or wild-caught fish for better nutrition and flavour.
  • Opt for reusable skewers and grill mats: These make clean-up easier and reduce waste — a bonus if you're barbecuing often.

Drinks to Pair With Your Paleo BBQ

If you're enjoying your barbecue with a drink in hand, consider Paleo-friendly options that complement the clean, real food flavours of your meal. Sparkling water with slices of citrus and fresh herbs (like mint or basil) makes for a refreshing non-alcoholic option. If you’re including alcohol, dry cider, organic red wine, or a spirit like tequila or vodka mixed with soda water and lime are better aligned with a Paleo lifestyle than sugary premixed drinks or beer.

Why Grilling Works So Well With Paleo

One of the great things about Paleo is that it celebrates whole foods in their most natural state — and that’s exactly what grilling brings out. Cooking over an open flame intensifies the flavours of meats and vegetables without needing processed marinades or breaded coatings. It’s also a method that echoes our ancestral roots, using fire and simplicity to prepare meals that are both nourishing and satisfying.

Plus, barbecuing encourages shared meals and outdoor dining, which supports the social and emotional aspects of wellness that are often overlooked in dietary conversations. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a crowd, a Paleo barbecue brings people together around real food — no additives, no preservatives, just flavour and connection.

Time to Fire It Up

As the weather warms up and the days get longer, now is the perfect time to experiment with new Paleo barbecue recipes. If you haven’t tried barbecuing vegetables, stuffing meats, or whipping up your own sauces yet, this season is your chance to get creative. With so many fresh ingredients available across Australia right now, there’s no shortage of inspiration for your next weekend cook-up.

Whether you're sticking to your favourites or trying something new, Paleo barbecuing proves that eating well doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. So dust off that grill, stock up on fresh produce and good quality meats, and get ready to enjoy your healthiest — and tastiest — summer yet.

What are your favourite barbecue recipes?

paleo barbecue recipes primal bbq ideas summer-min