Greek Recipe Dolmades(Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Delicious Greek dolmades feature tender grape leaves stuffed with herbed rice and optional meat, offering a savory, tangy flavor perfect for appetizers or main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the rice by rinsing it thoroughly.
- Chop the green onions, onions, parsley, dill, and mint.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and Mazola oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onions and green onions until translucent.
- Add the herbs and cook for another minute to release their aroma.
- Mix in the rice, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; cook until rice is partially cooked.
- If desired, add cooked ground lamb or beef to the mixture.
- Rinse the grape leaves and drain well.
- Place a grape leaf flat on a work surface, put a spoonful of filling near the stem end.
- Fold in the sides and roll up tightly to enclose the filling.
- Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Arrange the stuffed grape leaves tightly in a large pot.
- Add enough water to cover the dolmades, then place a heatproof plate on top to keep them submerged.
- Simmer gently for about 60 minutes until the rice and filling are cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, consider substituting the meat with additional rice or legumes. If grape leaves are too salty, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using. To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to the filling. Ensure the rice is only partially cooked to prevent it from becoming mushy during steaming.
Serving Suggestions
Serve dolmades warm or at room temperature, drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. They pair wonderfully with a side of Spinach Salad With Sesame Dressing or Roasted Potatoes With Garlic for a complete meal. For a light and refreshing complement, consider serving alongside Vermicelli (Greek) Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dolmades can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan with a splash of water to prevent drying out or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Recipe Dolmades(Stuffed Grape Leaves) contains roughly 1111 calories, with 12g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and potassium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh grape leaves instead of jarred ones?
Yes, fresh grape leaves can be used if available. Blanch them in boiling water for a minute to soften before using. Ensure they are tender enough to roll without tearing, as fresh leaves can be tougher than jarred ones.
What can I serve with dolmades?
Dolmades are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with tzatziki for dipping, or a side of yogurt for creaminess. They also go well with Mediterranean recipes like a Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
How do I ensure my dolmades stay rolled during cooking?
To keep dolmades tightly rolled, make sure to fold the sides in securely before rolling. Placing a heatproof plate on top of the dolmades while they cook helps keep them submerged and prevents them from unrolling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).