High Protein Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)

Indulge in the Mediterranean-inspired flavors of these High Protein Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas), a wholesome twist on the classic recipe. Packed with a nutrient-dense filling of quinoa, protein-rich lentils, fresh herbs like parsley and mint, and warm spices like cumin and cinnamon, these dolmas are a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. Grape leaves are tightly rolled around the vibrant filling, simmered gently in vegetable broth with aromatic lemon slices, and served perfectly tender. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this protein-packed appetizer or snack is vegan, gluten-free, and bursting with zesty, herby goodness. Ideal for anyone seeking a healthy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 87/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 40 pieces Fresh grape leaves (or jarred grape leaves, rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup Quinoa
• 1 cup Cooked lentils
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 0.5 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 cup Fresh mint, chopped
• 3 tablespoons Lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 cups Vegetable broth
• 1 whole Lemon slices (for cooking and garnish)

Directions

Step 1

If using fresh grape leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute to soften, then transfer to a bowl of ice water. Drain and pat dry. If using jarred grape leaves, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess brine and drain.

Step 2

Prepare the filling: Cook 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cooked lentils, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a uniform filling.

Step 3

Lay one grape leaf, vein side up, on a clean surface. Place about 1 to 2 teaspoons of filling (depending on the size of the leaf) near the stem end. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the stem end toward the tip to form a neat cylinder. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4

Line the bottom of a large pot with any torn or leftover grape leaves to prevent sticking. Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam-side down in tight, single layers, placing lemon slices between the layers for added flavor.

Step 5

Pour 2 cups of vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring the grape leaves are just covered. Place a heatproof plate or lid smaller than the pot on top of the stuffed leaves to weigh them down and prevent unrolling during cooking.

Step 6

Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Cover the pot and cook for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and the filling is fully cooked.

Step 7

Remove the pot from the heat and allow the stuffed grape leaves to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional lemon slices if desired.

Step 8

Serve warm or at room temperature as a healthy, protein-packed appetizer or snack.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1733.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1793.2

Total Fat 56.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4776.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 273.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 81.0g	0%
Total Sugars 25.5g
Protein 83.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2128.2mg	0%
Iron 38.3mg	0%
Potassium 4716.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.2%

Protein: 17.2%

Carbs: 56.6%