Greek Stuffed Onions
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Deliciously seasoned onions filled with a savory mixture that captures the essence of Greek cuisine.
These Greek Stuffed Onions are a delightful twist on traditional Greek flavors, offering a unique presentation and a burst of taste in every bite. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, they bring a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A unique and flavorful way to enjoy onions
- Packed with traditional Greek ingredients for an authentic taste
- Perfectly balanced with spices and herbs for a satisfying meal
The Essence of Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and this recipe for Greek Stuffed Onions encapsulates that beautifully. The combination of aromatic herbs, savory meat, and creamy feta cheese creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite. It's not just a meal; it's a celebration of Greek culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.
What sets this dish apart is the way it transforms humble onions into a gourmet experience. By hollowing out the onions and filling them with a richly seasoned blend, you create a dish that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. This recipe invites you to explore the depth of Greek gastronomy while enjoying a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Health Benefits of Onions and Feta
Onions are not only a staple in many cuisines but also offer a plethora of health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help boost your immune system. Additionally, onions contain compounds that may support heart health and improve digestion, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
Feta cheese, a key ingredient in this recipe, is lower in fat than many other cheeses, making it a healthier option. It provides a good source of calcium and protein, contributing to strong bones and muscle health. The combination of onions and feta in this dish not only enhances its flavor but also adds nutritional value, making it a well-rounded meal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Greek Stuffed Onions can be served as a main course or as a delightful appetizer. For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing them with a light Greek salad featuring fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil. The crispness of the salad complements the warm, savory stuffed onions beautifully.
For a more festive occasion, serve the stuffed onions alongside a side of roasted vegetables or tzatziki sauce for a refreshing dip. These pairings not only enhance the flavor profile but also create a colorful and inviting presentation on your dining table. Enjoying this dish with a glass of Greek wine can elevate your dining experience even further!
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Onions
- 4 large onions
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ground lamb or beef
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Instructions
Prepare the Onions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the onions and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix together the cooked rice, crumbled feta, ground meat, parsley, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Stuff the Onions
Fill each onion shell with the stuffing mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the stuffed onions.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the onions are tender.
Let the stuffed onions rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Onions
To ensure your stuffed onions turn out perfectly, select onions that are large and firm. Sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla, work particularly well for this recipe due to their mild flavor. When hollowing them out, take care not to pierce the shell, as this could cause the filling to leak during cooking.
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the ground lamb or beef before mixing it with the other filling ingredients. This step allows the meat to develop a richer taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the stuffed onions. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the herbs and spices used in the filling to suit your palate.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, Greek Stuffed Onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This makes them an excellent option for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners.
For long-term storage, consider freezing the stuffed onions before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This way, you can have a delicious homemade meal ready at your convenience!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground lamb or beef with chicken or turkey.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed onions a day in advance and refrigerate them before baking.
→ What can I serve with Greek Stuffed Onions?
They pair well with a fresh Greek salad or tzatziki sauce.
Greek Stuffed Onions
Deliciously seasoned onions filled with a savory mixture that captures the essence of Greek cuisine.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Onions
- 4 large onions
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup ground lamb or beef
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the onions and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
In a bowl, mix together the cooked rice, crumbled feta, ground meat, parsley, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Fill each onion shell with the stuffing mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the stuffed onions.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the onions are tender.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 12g