The Catch

• The main concern with using an Italian seasoning mix is that some of its ingredients may be at odds, flavor-wise, with the tzatziki sauce. Store-bought Italian seasoning mixes vary some, but oregano, basil, thyme, marjoram, rosemary, salt, black pepper and garlic or onion powder are standard ingredients. The oregano, basil and thyme are the most likely to lack harmony with the tzatziki sauce, which is typically made with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, lemon juice and garlic. You're better off if your Italian seasoning mix lists oregano, basil and thyme lower down on the ingredients list, but this is unlikely.

Application

• A light hand serves you well when using an Italian seasoning mix to flavor gyro meat. Sprinkle the seasoning mix lightly into your ground lamb, beef or combination of the two. Use your hands to fold the seasoning in thoroughly. You shouldn't need any additional seasoning, other than perhaps some finely chopped onion, in your gyro meat. Then spread the seasoned meat out into your baking pan to make the loaf.

DIY Italian Seasoning

• Don't feel constrained to store-bought seasoning mixes when you cook. You can make your own Italian-style mix with the specific flavors you crave and that are well-suited to gyros. Use coarse or sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to start, then add in some garlic powder and onion powder to taste. Marjoram and rosemary both commonly appear in Italian seasoning mixes and in gyro recipes, so add them in, too. A small amount of basil or oregano can work to provide a more authentic Italian flavor, since you can use much less than is usually included in store-bought products, thus preventing flavor wars in your gyro.

Keep It Simple

• Whether or not you use Italian seasoning mix, and whether or not you bought it or made it, keep your gyro simple for a harmonious finished product. Let the flavors of the meat and the tzatziki sauce be prominent; don't overpower them with heavy-handed or potent seasonings. If you decide against Italian seasoning mix, just flavor the meat with a bit of salt, freshly cracked black pepper and a bit of chopped garlic or onion. As for the fresh veggies you add, don't get carried away. Stick with some lettuce and tomato and maybe a little onion. Don't forget to lightly toast the pita or warm it in a pan on the stove.