If you're a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, then you've probably heard of or tried Greek dolmades. These delicious stuffed grape leaves are a staple dish in Greece and are often served as an appetizer or side dish. Made with simple ingredients like rice, herbs, and olive oil, dolmades are not only flavorful but also healthy. In this article, we'll share a traditional Greek dolmades recipe that is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends.
Main Ingredients: Grape Leaves, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic
Dolmades, also known as stuffed grape leaves, are a popular Greek appetizer that is packed with flavor and nutrition. These delicious little bundles are made by wrapping a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat in grape leaves and then simmering them in a lemony broth. They are a staple at many Greek gatherings and are perfect for snacking on while sipping on a cold beer.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)
Main Ingredients: Cucumber, Kosher Salt, Greek Yogurt, Ground Black
If you're looking for a tasty and unique appetizer to serve at your next party, look no further than stuffed grape leaves, or dolmades. These savory bites are made by filling grape leaves with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, then simmering them in a lemony broth. They are a must-try for any fan of Greek cuisine and are sure to impress your guests.
Main Ingredients: Vine Leaves, Rice, Olive Oil, Onions, Warm Water
Dolmades, or stuffed vine leaves, are a traditional Greek dish that is full of Mediterranean flavors. These tasty bites are made by rolling a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat in grape leaves and then simmering them in a lemony broth. They are perfect for snacking on while enjoying a cold beer and are a must-have at any Greek-inspired meal.
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Greek Dolmades With Cannelloni Beans
Main Ingredients: Cannellini Beans, Onion, Sea Salt, Bay Leaf, Olive Oil
If you're looking for a unique twist on traditional dolmades, try making them with cannellini beans. The creamy texture and mild flavor of the beans pair perfectly with the tangy grape leaves and zesty lemon broth. This recipe is a delicious and filling option for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter version of the classic Greek dish.
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Keto Greek Dolmades with Avgolemono
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Minced Beef, Chopped Parsley, Mint, Rice
For those following a keto diet, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of dolmades with this keto-friendly recipe. Instead of rice, this version uses cauliflower rice, and the broth is thickened with eggs to create a creamy avgolemono sauce. These dolmades are packed with flavor and are a great option for anyone looking to cut back on carbs.
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Greek Dolmades - Stuffed Vine Leaves
Main Ingredients: Vine Leaves, Onions, Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Carolina
Stuffed vine leaves, or dolmades, are a popular dish throughout the Mediterranean, with each region having its own unique twist on the classic recipe. In Greece, they are typically made with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, creating a flavorful and hearty appetizer. They are perfect for snacking on while enjoying a cold beer with friends and family.
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Keto Greek Dolmades with Herzegovinian twist
Main Ingredients: Leaves, Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Sesame Seeds, Dried
This version of dolmades is inspired by a traditional dish from the region of Herzegovina and is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique twist on the classic Greek appetizer. This recipe uses ground beef and lamb in the filling, along with traditional Mediterranean herbs and spices. Serve these keto-friendly dolmades at your next gathering for a delicious and unexpected treat.
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Greek Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Water, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Dried Oregano
Greek potatoes, or lemon potatoes, are a classic side dish in Greek cuisine and pair perfectly with any meal, especially beer can chicken. These potatoes are coated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, and then baked until crispy and golden. They are a simple and flavorful addition to any Greek-inspired meal.
Greek chicken is a staple in Mediterranean cooking and is often marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before being grilled or baked. The result is a tender and flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with a cold beer and any of the other delicious Greek dishes on this list. Try using Greek yogurt in the marinade for an extra tangy and creamy flavor.
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Greek Salad Dressing & Greek Salad
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemon
No Greek-inspired meal is complete without a refreshing and flavorful Greek salad. The star of this dish is the tangy and zesty dressing, made with a combination of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and herbs. Toss it with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
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Greek Moussaka
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Butter, Chopped Onion, Minced Garlic, Ground
Moussaka is a hearty and flavorful Greek casserole that is made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and a creamy bechamel sauce. This dish is a staple in Greek households and is perfect for serving at family gatherings or potlucks. The rich and savory flavors of moussaka make it a perfect pairing for a cold beer and some fresh pita bread.
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GREEK BEEF STIFADO
Main Ingredients: Chopped Tomatoes, Cinnamon Sticks, Bay Leaves, Dried
Beef stifado is a classic Greek dish that is made with tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked in a rich tomato and red wine sauce. The addition of warm spices such as cinnamon and cloves gives this dish a unique and delicious flavor that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. Serve it over rice or with some crusty bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes – Both Homers Would...
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Bone, Russet Potatoes, Kosher Salt, Freshly
This simple and flavorful Greek dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Chicken and potatoes are marinated in a zesty mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then roasted until golden and tender. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with a cold beer and some fresh pita bread.
Pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser, and this Greek-inspired version is no exception. It is packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. It's the perfect side dish for a summer BBQ or potluck and is a great option for pairing with beer can chicken.
If you're looking for a lighter and more refreshing option, try making a Greek orzo salad. Orzo, a small rice-shaped pasta, is tossed with fresh vegetables, olives, and a zesty dressing for a dish that is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It's a great side dish to serve with beer can chicken or as a light lunch option.
For a healthier spin on the classic burger, try making Greek turkey burgers. These flavorful patties are made with ground turkey, feta cheese, and Mediterranean herbs and spices. Serve them on a bun with fresh veggies and a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal that pairs perfectly with a cold beer.
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Greek Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Flour Tortillas, Frozen Chopped Spinach, Sun Dried
For a fusion of Mexican and Greek flavors, try making Greek quesadillas. These crispy and cheesy tortillas are filled with a mixture of chicken, feta cheese, and Mediterranean spices for a unique and tasty twist on the classic dish. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping and enjoy with a cold beer.
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One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice
Main Ingredients: Dried Oregano, Dried Minced Onion, Garlic, Lemon
This one-pan meal is a quick and easy option for busy weeknights. Chicken, rice, and vegetables are all cooked together in one pan, making for easy preparation and cleanup. The chicken is marinated in a tangy lemon and herb mixture, giving it a delicious and zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with a cold beer.
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Zesty Greek chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Legs, Chicken Stock, Lemon, Olive Oil, Onion
This zesty and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grilled or baked until tender and juicy. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables and a cold beer for a satisfying and delicious meal.
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Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Greek Yogurt, Fresh Lemon Juice, Extra
Gyros are a popular Greek street food that is made with tender slices of meat, wrapped in pita bread and topped with a creamy tzatziki sauce. This recipe uses chicken marinated in Greek yogurt and lemon for a healthier option that is just as tasty. Serve these gyros with a side of Greek salad and a cold beer for a filling and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
1 jar grape leaves
1 cup uncooked long grain rice
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh oregano
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup water
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Preparation:
Start by rinsing the grape leaves with cold water and then draining them.
In a saucepan, add the uncooked rice and cover with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Drain the rice and set aside.
In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped fresh herbs and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Next, add the cooked rice to the pan and mix well with the herbs. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
To prepare the filling for the dolmades, place one grape leaf on a flat surface with the shiny side down. Add a spoonful of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf and fold the sides towards the center, then roll it tightly.
Repeat this process until all the filling is used up.
In a large pot, place the stuffed grape leaves in a single layer. Pour in lemon juice and water over the dolmades, making sure they are fully covered.
Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let the dolmades simmer for 40-45 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
Once done, remove the dolmades from the pot and let them cool before serving.
Final Thoughts:
Greek dolmades are a delicious and healthy addition to any Mediterranean-inspired meal. The combination of fresh herbs, rice, and olive oil creates a burst of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for a variety of dietary restrictions. So next time you're looking to impress your guests, give this traditional Greek dolmades recipe a try. Trust us, they won't disappoint!
