ZESTY RICE STUFFED VINE LEAVES WITH HERBS

ZESTY RICE STUFFED VINE LEAVES WITH HERBS

Zesty Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves With Herbs, often called dolmades, are a timeless Mediterranean classic that brings together freshness, flavour and tradition in every bite. These delicate rolls are made by wrapping tender vine leaves around a fragrant filling of rice, parsley, mint and a splash of lemon juice, then drizzled with a hint of olive oil for richness. The result is a dish that is light yet satisfying, offering a perfect balance of citrusy brightness, herbal freshness and gentle earthiness. Traditionally enjoyed as part of mezze platters, they are equally delicious as a light appetiser, side dish or wholesome snack. The Zesty Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves With Herbs is served chilled or at room temperature, which delivers a refreshing taste that works beautifully for family gatherings, picnics or festive occasions, celebrating the vibrant spirit of Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Appetisers, Entrée, Side

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

Mediterranean, Greek, Middle Eastern

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

Simmer, Prepared in Advance

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Anniversary, Picnic, Family Reunion, Easter, Passover, Summer, Party, Ramadan, Wedding, Thanksgiving

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Vegetarian, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, High Fibre, Kid-Friendly, Kosher, Kosher for Passover, Quick & Easy

DISH TYPE

Tacos & Wraps

INGREDIENTS

There are the following ingredients for Zesty Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves With Herbs:

• 10 grams | 0.35 ounces | 2 vine leaves (preserved), rinsed
• 15 grams | 0.53 ounces | about 1 tablespoon rice (uncooked)
• 1 gram | 0.04 ounces | 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 5 gram | 0.02 ounces | ½ tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• 5 millilitres | 0.25 fluid ounces | ½ tablespoon lemon juice
• 5 millilitres | 0.25 fluid ounces | ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 5 grams | 0.05 ounces | ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 30 grams | 0.01 ounces | ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 125 kilocalories
• Fat: 6.8 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1.0 grams
• Carbohydrate: 12.3 grams
• Sugar: 0.7 grams
• Fibre: 0.6 grams
• Sodium: 700 milligrams
• Protein: 1.6 grams
• Calcium: 30 milligrams
• Potassium: 80 milligrams
• Iron: 0.70 milligrams

PREPARATION

These steps are followed for the preparation of Zesty Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves With Herbs:

• Prepare The Rice: Cook the rice in a small pot with water until tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
• Mix The Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked rice, fresh parsley, fresh mint, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Mix until the herbs and seasoning are evenly distributed.
• Assemble The Dolmades: Place a vine leaf on a flat surface with a shiny side down. Add a spoonful of the rice mixture to the centre. Fold in the sides and roll tightly into a small cylinder.
• Cook The Dolmades: In a small pan, place the Zesty Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves With Herbs seam side down. Add enough water to cover and simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and the vine leaves are tender.
• Serve Chilled Or Warm: Let the dolmades cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled.

PREPARATION TIME

10 minutes

COOKING TIME

15 minutes

TIPS

Here are some helpful tips for Zesty Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves With Herbs:

• Preserved Vine Leaves: Rinse the vine leaves under cold water to remove any excess saltiness from the brine.
• Rolling Tip: Roll the vine leaves tightly to prevent them from unravelling while cooking.
• Flavour Boost: Add a slight drizzle of extra lemon juice or olive oil before serving for extra flavour.

VARIATIONS

• Add Pine Nuts: Mix a few toasted pine nuts into the rice filling for added texture and nutty flavour.
• Vegan Option: Ensure the rice mixture is free from any non-vegan ingredients like butter or meat.
• Add Spices: Include a pinch of cinnamon or allspice in the filling for a warm and aromatic twist.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Zesty Rice Stuffed Vine Leaves With Herbs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Dolmades can be frozen after cooking. Place them in a single layer on a tray, freeze them and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Reheat by steaming or microwaving.