Greek Stuffed Onions
Highlighted under: Global World Food Ideas
Experience the delightful flavors of Greece with these Greek Stuffed Onions, packed with savory ingredients and a burst of Mediterranean charm.
These Greek Stuffed Onions are a delicious and hearty dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Perfect as a main course or a side, they combine the sweetness of onions with a savory filling that will impress your family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory filling that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors
- Sweet onions that caramelize beautifully during cooking
- A unique twist on traditional stuffed vegetables
The Essence of Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and these Greek Stuffed Onions embody that spirit perfectly. Packed with a savory filling of meat, rice, and herbs, every bite takes you on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean. The balance of flavors, from the sweetness of the onions to the richness of the feta, makes this dish a standout at any meal.
Onions may seem like a simple ingredient, but when stuffed and baked, they transform into a delicious vessel for savory fillings. The slow cooking process allows the onions to caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also showcases the beauty of Greek cooking.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Greek Stuffed Onions are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or looking for a unique dish to bring to a potluck, these stuffed onions will surely impress your guests. Their eye-catching presentation and aromatic appeal are bound to spark conversations around the table.
Additionally, this recipe can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences. You can easily substitute ground lamb with beef or turkey, or even make a vegetarian version by using lentils or chickpeas. The flexibility of this dish ensures that everyone can enjoy the comforting flavors of Greece, regardless of their dietary needs.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Onions
To achieve the best results, choose large onions that have a firm texture. Sweet onions, like Vidalia or Walla Walla, work particularly well as they caramelize beautifully during cooking. Ensure you scoop out enough of the onion flesh to create ample space for the filling, but be careful not to break the outer layers.
Make your filling ahead of time to save on prep time. You can cook the meat mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before stuffing the onions. This not only allows the flavors to meld but also makes it easier to assemble the dish when you’re ready to bake.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Onions
- 4 large onions
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 pound ground lamb or beef
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you begin for an easy cooking experience!
Instructions
Prepare the Onions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the tops off the onions and carefully scoop out the insides, creating a hollow center.
Make the Filling
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground lamb or beef and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, parsley, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until combined.
Stuff the Onions
Fill each hollowed onion with the meat mixture, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed onions in a baking dish.
Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the tops to brown slightly.
Let the stuffed onions cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your dish!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit more olive oil before serving or garnish with additional feta cheese.
Serving Suggestions
These Greek Stuffed Onions pair beautifully with a simple side salad dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. The freshness of the salad complements the savory richness of the stuffed onions perfectly. For a heartier meal, consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or a side of tzatziki for dipping.
If you're looking to elevate the dining experience, a glass of red wine, such as a Greek Agiorgitiko, can enhance the flavors of the dish. Its fruity notes and moderate tannins make it a delightful pairing with the savory meat and sweet onions.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover stuffed onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the onions' texture and flavor, making them just as delicious as the first day.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed onions before baking. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed. This makes for a quick, comforting meal on busy days.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat for the stuffing?
Yes, you can substitute the lamb or beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian stuffing.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the stuffed onions?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed onions before baking. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Greek Stuffed Onions
Experience the delightful flavors of Greece with these Greek Stuffed Onions, packed with savory ingredients and a burst of Mediterranean charm.
Created by: Olivia Martin
Recipe Type: Global World Food Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Onions
- 4 large onions
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 pound ground lamb or beef
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the tops off the onions and carefully scoop out the insides, creating a hollow center.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground lamb or beef and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, parsley, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until combined.
Fill each hollowed onion with the meat mixture, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed onions in a baking dish.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the tops to brown slightly.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, drizzle with a bit more olive oil before serving or garnish with additional feta cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 15g