Dolmades recipe served on a plate, by Athenian Restaurant
Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Athenian Restaurant›Dolmades Recipe

Dolmades Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

Stuffed grape leaves with rice and herbs

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Ingredients

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Filling

Grape Leaves

Cooking Liquid

Method

Prepare the Filling

1

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine 1 cup of long-grain rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.

2

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, finely chopped onion, dill, parsley, mint, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Stuff the Grape Leaves

3

Prepare the Grape Leaves

Gently separate the grape leaves from the jar, rinsing them under cool water to remove excess salt. Lay them flat on a clean surface with the vein side facing up.

4

Fill the Leaves

Place 1-2 tablespoons of the filling at the base (stem end) of each grape leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the base to the tip. Repeat until all filling is used.

Cook the Dolmades

5

Prepare the Cooking Pot

In a large pot, arrange any unused grape leaves on the bottom to prevent sticking. Place the stuffed grape leaves seam side down in the pot, packing them tightly.

6

Add Cooking Liquid

In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of vegetable broth with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour this mixture over the stuffed grape leaves. Add lemon slices on top.

7

Cook the Dolmades

Cover the pot and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 45 minutes, or until the grape leaves are tender.

Serve

8

Plate and Enjoy

Once cooked, allow the dolmades to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with additional olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired.