Go Back
Delicious Dolmades with a Zesty Twist

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades) with Tangy Mediterranean Lemon Sauce

These stuffed grape leaves are filled with a mixture of fragrant herbs, rice, and spices, providing a satisfying bite. The addition of a tangy Mediterranean lemon sauce gives them a refreshing taste, perfectly balancing the earthiness of the grape leaves.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 jar grape leaves drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup long-grain rice rinsed
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 lemon juiced (for sauce)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice for the dolmades
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft. Add the rice, parsley, dill, salt, pepper, and cinnamon, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice, then bring to a simmer. Cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, around 15 minutes.
  • Roll the Dolmades: Lay a grape leaf on a flat surface, vein side up. Place a spoonful of filling at the bottom of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to the top. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
  • Cook the Dolmades: Place the rolled dolmades seam-side down in a large pot. Add water to cover the grape leaves and a splash of olive oil. Place a plate on top to keep them submerged, then simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes.
  • Make the Lemon Sauce: In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve the dolmades warm or at room temperature, drizzled with the tangy lemon sauce.

Notes

  • Fat: 7g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g