Greek Stuffed Onions
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A delightful dish featuring tender onions filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and feta cheese, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Greek Stuffed Onions is a traditional dish that combines the sweetness of onions with a rich filling of rice, herbs, and feta cheese. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a taste of the Mediterranean right at your table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A unique twist on stuffed vegetables that will impress your guests
- Healthy ingredients combined for a delicious and satisfying meal
- Perfectly balanced flavors with the freshness of herbs and the creaminess of feta
The Joy of Greek Flavors
Greek cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and this Greek Stuffed Onions recipe encapsulates that essence beautifully. The combination of herbs, spices, and creamy feta cheese creates a mouthwatering filling that complements the natural sweetness of the onions. Each bite offers a delightful experience that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.
This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. Onions are low in calories and packed with vitamins, while the rice and feta provide a satisfying and nutritious filling. Perfect for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, Greek stuffed onions are sure to be a hit at your table.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a family meal, Greek Stuffed Onions are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Their impressive presentation makes them a standout dish that will surely catch the eye of your guests. Plus, the delightful aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite.
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different dietary preferences as well. For a vegetarian option, simply omit any meat-based sides and serve with a fresh salad. If you're looking for a heartier meal, consider serving the stuffed onions alongside grilled chicken or fish to create a well-rounded dining experience.
Easy Meal Prep and Storage
One of the greatest advantages of Greek Stuffed Onions is that they can be prepared ahead of time. You can stuff the onions in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a day or two before baking. This makes them an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the last-minute rush.
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The flavors will continue to develop, making them just as delicious the second time around!
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Onions
- 4 large onions
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Cooking Steps
Prepare the Onions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the onions and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a shell. Reserve the insides for the filling.
Make the Filling
In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice and cook for about 15 minutes until tender. Mix in the reserved onion insides, feta, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Onions
Fill each onion shell with the rice mixture and place them upright in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake the Onions
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the onions are tender and slightly caramelized.
Allow the stuffed onions to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These Greek Stuffed Onions can be served as a main dish or as a delightful side. Pair them with a refreshing Greek salad, featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice. This combination not only enhances the flavors of the stuffed onions but also adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
For a complete Mediterranean experience, consider serving the stuffed onions with a side of tzatziki sauce. This creamy yogurt-based sauce, flavored with cucumber and garlic, adds a cool and tangy contrast that complements the savory filling perfectly.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is rich in nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Onions are known for their antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Additionally, the inclusion of feta cheese adds a good source of protein and calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and muscle function.
The herbs used in this recipe, such as parsley and oregano, are not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits. Oregano is known for its antibacterial properties, while parsley is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. Together, they elevate this dish from merely delicious to a wholesome option.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with the filling! You can add cooked ground meat, such as lamb or beef, for a heartier version. Alternatively, include additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase the nutritional content and add more flavor to the stuffing.
For a different twist, try incorporating grains like quinoa or farro instead of rice. These alternatives not only provide a nutty flavor but also offer additional health benefits, making your stuffed onions even more nutritious and satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can substitute with quinoa or any short-grain rice.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed onions a day before and store them in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I serve with Greek Stuffed Onions?
They pair well with a side salad or some roasted vegetables.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Greek Stuffed Onions
A delightful dish featuring tender onions filled with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and feta cheese, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Onions
- 4 large onions
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the onions and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a shell. Reserve the insides for the filling.
In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice and cook for about 15 minutes until tender. Mix in the reserved onion insides, feta, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Fill each onion shell with the rice mixture and place them upright in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the onions are tender and slightly caramelized.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g