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    Home » Asia

    What To Serve with Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma)

    Published on Apr 3, 2023 Modified: Apr 3, 2023 by Alexandria Drzazgowski.

    Stuffed grape leaves are a delicious dish made with ground meat, fresh herbs, and rice. They are savory and bite-sized which makes them an excellent main dish or appetizer. If you plan to serve some stuffed grape leaves at your next dinner party, here are 23 sides to add to the menu!

    Stuffed grape leaves on a platter with a sauce in a bowl.

    If you’ve never tried stuffed grape leaves before, you are in for a treat. They may not look appetizing from the outside, but the combination of slightly bitter leaves with savory herbs, rice, and meat is absolutely mouth-watering. 

    If you have fallen in love with stuffed grape leaves already, the next natural question is what to serve them with. Stuffed grape leaves, or dolmas, are incredibly versatile. 

    In Azerbaijan, there are dozens of different types of dolmas. They are enjoyed on a weekly basis and are usually served as the main dish with crusty bread and another side. In many other parts of the world, they are served as an appetizer, with yogurt dipping sauce.

    How you will choose to eat them is completely up to you, but if you’re looking for dishes that will complement them well, you have come to the right place.

    Jump to:
    • FAQs
    • Favorite Recipes
    • Expert Tips
    • Cooking your Grape Leaves
    • What to Serve With Stuffed Grape Leaves
    • Recipe to Serve with Stuffed Grape Leaves
    • Instant Pot Polenta
    • Mashed Potatoes in the Instant Pot
    • Baba Ganoush
    • Easy Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup
    • Greek Pasta Salad
    • Greek Salad with Sardines
    • Greek Brown Rice Bowls
    • Moussaka Recipe
    • Easy Tzatziki Sauce
    • Greek Lamb Meatballs
    • Mediterranean Gnocchi
    • Cacik (Turkish Yogurt Sauce)
    • Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
    • Homemade Pita Pocket
    • Lebanese Hummus Recipe
    • Lebanese Fattoush Salad
    • Best Tabouli Salad
    • 5 Layer Greek Dip
    • Greek Sliders
    • Gyro Meat Recipe
    • Fried Feta Cheese
    • Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
    • Grilled Shish Taouk: Lebanese Chicken Kabob

    FAQs

    What are Dolmas?

    The word dolma means “stuffed” or “filled”, and it is basically another title for stuffed grape leaves. There are different variations of dolmas in several Mediterranean countries around the world from Turkey and Lebanon to Greece and Azerbaijan, and they may go by slightly different names. 

    Dolma is most often referring to stuffed grape leaves, but some variations are also stuffed zucchini, stuffed eggplant or stuffed cabbage. 

    What Are Stuffed Grape Leaves Stuffed With?

    Traditional dolmas are stuffed with lamb meat, rice, and herbs, but you can use just about any ground meat. If you want to make them with beef, be sure to use lean ground beef.

    Are Stuffed Grape Leaves Healthy?

    Healthy is a very broad term and will really depend on what you stuff into your grape leaves, but in general stuffed grape leaves could be considered a healthy dish. Grape leaves are very low in calories and contain high amounts of vitamin c, vitamin A, vitamin K, and vitamin E. They also have a good amount of fiber, iron, calcium, and magnesium.

    Are They Eaten Hot or Cold?

    The way this dish is served depends on what it is filled with. Many vegetarian dolmas are served cold or room temperature while those with meat are usually served warm. You can enjoy them either way.

    When Is Dolma Served?

    In Azerbaijan where dolma is very popular, they are usually eaten for lunch or dinner as the main course. At one time they were a very popular dish for weddings.

    In many other parts of the world stuffed grape leaves are served as a delicious appetizer. 

    What Do Grape Leaves Taste Like?

    Fresh grape leaves have a taste that is similar to collard greens but they also have the ability to soak up the flavors they are cooked with like the meat and herbs. Jarred or canned grape leaves will be slightly salty which works well with the rice and meat.

    Can You Store Leftover Stuffed Grape Leaves?

    Yes. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. You can also freeze them for up to two months.

    Can You Make Stuffed Grape Leaves Ahead of Time?

    It’s a great idea to make these ahead of time. Assembling these little rolls can be time-consuming. Store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook and serve.

    Where Can I Find Grape Leaves at the Grocery Store?

    You can usually find jarred or canned grape leaves near jarred olives or jarred roasted red peppers. Some specialty stores may also sell fresh leaves but these are more difficult to come by. 

    How Do You Roll Stuffed Grape Leaves?

    Rolling your leaves can be tricky. Make sure you have a flat surface to work on and that your leaves are soft. If you are using fresh leaves be sure and remove the stem end of the leaf and you may want to put them in boiling water to soften them slightly. Add the filling to the non shiny side.

    Rolling the rolls nice and tight may take a little practice but it is easier than you may think.

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    Favorite Recipes

    • When I made Dolma myself I was shocked at how amazing they are. This Dolma Recipe is one of my favorites!
    • This Vegan Dolma from Polka Dot Passport is a great option for anyone wanting a meat-free recipe.
    • If you are not a fan of grape leaves, try making dolmades with cabbage leaves with this recipe from Hilda’s Kitchen Blog.

    Expert Tips

    • Stuffed grape leaves get a lot of their flavor from fresh dill and other herbs, so choose high-quality herbs and the freshest you can find.
    • Stuffing grape leaves can take time. This is a great dish to prepare when you have someone to help!
    • Be careful not to overfill your leaves. The rice expands during the cooking process and your leaves may burst, so only put a little bit of filling in each one.
    • Be sure to rinse your uncooked white rice before using it to remove any excess starch. Too much starch will make your rice sticky and soggy.

    Cooking your Grape Leaves

    Here are some of my best tips for having success while cooking your grape leaves. 

    • Cook your grape leaves in a pan with the seam side down to help them stay together.
    • Be careful to simmer your grape leaves at a low temperature while cooking. If you try to cook your grape leaves at a rolling boil, your rolls will quickly unwrap.
    • Allow your stuffed grape leaves to rest for a few minutes between cooking and serving. This allows all the juices to settle and makes them easier to pick up.
    • If you find that your dolmas are getting burnt during the cooking process, you could try to line the bottom of the pan with grape leaves before adding your rolls to the dish for cooking. This extra layer will help protect them. Also be sure you have plenty of hot water at the bottom of the pot.
    • You can place an inverted plate on top of your dolmas as they cook to help keep in the steam and prevent them from unwrapping.

    What to Serve With Stuffed Grape Leaves

    There are so many ways to enjoy grape leaves! Here are some of my favorites

    Toppings: Lemon zest, pine nuts, plain yogurt, Greek yogurt, garlic yogurt sauce, tomato sauce, red pepper flakes, fresh lemon juice

    Sides: Polenta, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, pita bread, salad, baba ganoush, marinated olives

    Recipe to Serve with Stuffed Grape Leaves

    Instant Pot Polenta

    A small serving of polenta in a white dish topped with cheese and herbs.
    This polenta is cooked in the Instant Pot for a hands-off, easy way to make a delicious classic! Stir in cheddar cheese and herbs at the end for a flavorful twist.
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    Mashed Potatoes in the Instant Pot

    Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
    Mashed Potatoes are a known classic, but making Mashed Potatoes in the Instant Pot is a new way to make this favorite side dish! The potatoes will be ready for mashing in just about 6 minutes, making this old favorite so much easier to make and enjoy!
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    Baba Ganoush

    Pomegranate seeds topping baba ganoush with slice of pita bread dipping into it.
    Baba Ganoush is a dish made by pureeing eggplant with herbs and spices to create a unique dip or spread. Similar to hummus, baba ganoush is delicious on sandwiches, eggs, or with vegetables.
    Read More

    Easy Greek Chicken Lemon Rice Soup

    Bowl of greek chicken lemon rice soup with sliced green onions over top and lemon wedges garnished on on the side of the bowl.

    This creamy chicken lemon rice soup (from Sweet Tea & Thyme) tastes like it came straight from your favorite Greek restaurant. It’s a staple recipe for my family when soup season rolls around and is a hearty, creamy soup with lots of lemon flavor. If you have leftover rice or leftover chicken, consider this your fast and easy 30 minute dinner tonight!

    Read More

    Greek Pasta Salad

    Greek pasta salad ingredients in a bowl with the fresh chopped ingredients added individually, not combined to show the color and texture.

    Greek pasta salad (from Rich and Delish) is the perfect side dish for any occasion, made with cooked pasta, fresh veggies, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and homemade Greek salad dressing. We love to serve this pasta salad at a picnic or barbecue.

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    Greek Salad with Sardines

    Sardines on plates with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, feta and red onion rings.

    This easy, traditional Greek Salad (or Horiatiki) (from Champagne Tastes) is made with fresh summer produce and an easy vinaigrette, and topped with delicious and healthy sardines!

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    Greek Brown Rice Bowls

    Greek brown rice bowl with a fork on the side.

    These Greek brown rice bowls (from Running to the Kitchen) are filled with everything you love about a gyro and a Greek salad combined, flavorful lamb, pickled red onions, cucumbers and of course, feta!

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    Moussaka Recipe

    A plate of Moussaka sitting in front of glasses of wine and a pan of moussaka with fork sitting in front of it.
    This Classic Moussaka Recipe is a rich, meaty casserole made up of eggplant, potatoes, meat sauce and topped with creamy bechamel sauce. It’s the perfect Greek comfort food dish!
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    Easy Tzatziki Sauce

    Tzatziki sauce in a small bowl, surrounded by pita bread and topped with olive oil and dill.
    Whether you’re serving it on gyros, eating it with pita, or enjoying it with veggies, you’ll love this Greek dip! Made with greek yogurt, cucumbers, and garlic, Greek Tzatziki Sauce is light, fresh, and versatile.
    Read More

    Greek Lamb Meatballs

    Greek lamb meatballs with a wooden stick coming out of each to use to serve for appetizers, topped with a sacue and fresh dill.

    These Greek lamb meatballs (from Aleka’s Get-Together) are one of my favorite party appetizers! Using ground lamb makes these meatballs super moist and juicy. I added feta cheese too as well as Greek seasoning like oregano for the most flavorful Greek bite. Serve them with mini toothpicks and a creamy tzatziki sauce, and your guests will be raving!

    Read More

    Mediterranean Gnocchi

    Mediterranean Gnocchi served in a salad bowl with a wooden spoon.

    This Mediterranean Gnocchi recipe (from Smartypants Kitchen) is loaded with flavor from marinated chickpeas, lemon, dill and Feta! This can be served as an appetizer or entree and the best thing is, it’s ready in less than 15-minutes!

    Read More

    Cacik (Turkish Yogurt Sauce)

    Cacik served in a bowl with a spoon and a variety of foods next to it : roasted garlic, roasted tomatoes 
kebabs and lemon slices laying next to it.

    Turkish Cacik (from Give Recipe) is such a tasty side dish that pairs well with any dish. It is made with plain yogurt, cucumber, garlic and mint. So easy to make and ready in less than 10 minutes.

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    Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

    Bowl of Mediterranean cucumber tomato salad.

    This Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad (from Vanilla Bean Cuisine) combines tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese in a summery salad tossed with a red wine vinaigrette. Toasted pita chips take this over the top! 

    Read More

    Homemade Pita Pocket

    A towel with homemade pita pockets laying inside it.

    Did you know that pita is probably the easiest bread recipe to master? Well, maybe next to lavash bread. Yes, even the most novice of cooks shouldn’t be intimidated by this homemade pita pocket recipe (from Hilda’s Kitchen Blog)! Serve freshly baked pita bread with hummus, roasted eggplant dip, or with your falafel bowl.

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    Lebanese Hummus Recipe

    Lebanaese Hummus with a drizzle of oil in a bowl with a cucumber and tomato slice garnished on the side.

    Whip up a batch of homemade Lebanese Hummus Recipe (from A Cedar Spoon) and keep it for snacking throughout the week. It is healthy and packed with protein, pairing perfectly with pita bread or vegetables. I also like to use it on sandwiches and wraps! 

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    Lebanese Fattoush Salad

    Lebanese Fattoush salad in a serving bowl with a wooden salad tongs resting next to it.

    Fattoush salad (from The Butter Half) combines fresh, zesty, and beautiful with the perfect crunch. I love making this fattoush salad recipe for lunch or as a side salad for dinner. It’s also nutritious, offering lots of greens and vegetables!

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    Best Tabouli Salad

    Tabbouli salad in a bowl with a wooden spoon resting in it and lemon halves laying next to the bowl.

    This is the best tabouli salad recipe (from The Butter Half) because it’s quick, easy, delicious, and nutritious. The fresh mint leaves are the star of the show in this salad – it creates such a fresh taste and really bring out all of the other flavors. Tabouli salad is great to prepare and keep in the fridge to pair with any dinner or to snack on all week long. 

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    5 Layer Greek Dip

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    Greek Sliders

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    These easy Greek Sliders (from Homemade Interest) make an awesome easy appetizer recipe for a cookout or game day.

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    Fried Feta Cheese

    Fried feta in a cast iron skillet topped with honey next to pita chips.
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    If you’ve loved the lemon rice in a Greek restaurant, use this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (from Kaylyn’s Kitchen) to make this traditional Greek dish at home. And since I used converted rice that’s lower in carbs than traditional white rice, this tasty rice dish is not as much of a splurge on carbs as you might be thinking!

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    Grilled Shish Taouk: Lebanese Chicken Kabob

    Greek Shish Taouk laying on a pita, with lettuce and tomato.

    These Middle Eastern Grilled chicken skewers (from Carne Diem) have become a favorite dish to get when eating at one of our local Middle Eastern restaurants. Thankfully we have also discovered how easy Shish Taouk is to make at home. Tender cubed chicken is marinated in a yogurt-based marinade with warming spices like allspice, ginger, and sumac, before hitting the grill.

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    A pinterest image for what to serve with grape leaves with a collage of photos showing examples.

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    Comments

    1. Gordon says

      September 05, 2024 at 1:00 pm

      Many thanks for the recipes and dishes to serve with stuffed vine leaves. It’s wonderful to know that these can be had with many of the tastiest accompaniment foods. I can’t wait to give all of this a try. Cheers!

      Reply
      • Alexandria Drzazgowski says

        September 05, 2024 at 6:21 pm

        Hi Gordon, Thanks so much for the compliment! I loved finding fun recipe ideas to serve with grape leaves 🙂 Enjoy!

        Reply

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