Green Pepper Dolma With Olive Oil
Green pepper dolma filled with seasoned rice and herbs, simmered in tomato sauce for a flavorful, vegetarian-friendly dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and remove the seeds from the green peppers.
- Simmer chopped onions in a little olive oil until soft.
- Add washed rice, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and olive oil to the onions and mix well.
- Fill each pepper with the rice mixture, only 3/4 of the way full.
- Place the filled peppers upright in a pan large enough to hold them.
- Pour tomato sauce into each pepper as much as it will hold, then add the remaining sauce to the bottom of the pan.
- Cover the pan and cook on medium fire until rice is tender, about 1 hour.
- Serve cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the rice. You can substitute quinoa for rice for a gluten-free option. Fresh herbs like mint or dill can enhance the dish's flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some chopped chili peppers to the filling. This dolma recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dolmas as a refreshing appetizer or as part of a light main dish. They pair beautifully with Zesty Tomato Salad or Sliced Tomatoes With Basil Salad for a vibrant meal. Consider adding a side of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a creamy contrast. These dolmas can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them perfect for picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dolmas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm them in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Pepper Dolma With Olive Oil contains roughly 320 calories, with 15g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (194% of the Daily Value), iron (103% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2046mg per serving (89% 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 different types of peppers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bell peppers, poblano peppers, or even zucchini if you want a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the filling. Each type will impart its unique taste to the dolmas.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These dolmas store well and can be made ahead of time. Prepare them on the weekend and enjoy throughout the week. They taste even better after the flavors have melded together, making them perfect for meal prep.
Can I freeze the dolmas?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dolmas before baking. Layer them in a freezer-safe container, separating each layer with parchment paper. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the cooking instructions as usual.
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).