Ingredients

3/4 cup chopped green olives
3/4 cup chopped kalamata olive
1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola
3/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts
5 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
1 red bell pepper , chopped
3 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic
2 tablespoons brown sugar
salt
ground black pepper
1 jar grape leaves , packed in brine
Gorgonzola and Olive Stuffed Grape Leaves are a delicious and unique appetizer that is perfect for entertaining. The filling mixture is made with chopped green and kalamata olives, crumbled gorgonzola cheese, chopped macadamia nuts, fresh basil, red bell pepper, and garlic, which are all rolled up into grape leaves. The dish is baked in the oven until the filling is heated through and the grape leaves are tender and slightly crispy. The combination of salty olives, creamy cheese, and nutty macadamia nuts is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The dish can be served warm and garnished with chopped herbs if desired.

Instructions

1.Rinse the grape leaves several times in cold water and drain them.
2.In a medium bowl, mix together the green olives, kalamata olives, gorgonzola, macadamia nuts, basil leaves, red bell pepper, and garlic.
3.Add brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Mix it well.
4.Take a grape leaf and place it on a flat surface with the shiny side down and the stem facing you.
5.Add one heaping tablespoon of the filling to the center of the leaf.
6.Fold the bottom of the leaf up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly.
7.Secure the roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
8.Repeat the process with remaining grape leaves and mixture.
9.Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
10.Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are heated through.
11.Serve the rolls warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

PROS

These Gorgonzola and Olive Stuffed Grape Leaves are a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
They are easy to make and will impress your guests.
The filling is flavorful and the grape leaves add a nice texture to the dish.
They are also vegetarian and gluten-free.

CONS

The grape leaves can be a bit tricky to roll, and it takes some practice to get them just right.
The filling might be too salty for some people.
The macadamia nuts are quite expensive, so the cost of the dish may be higher than some other appetizers.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Grape leaves are a good source of dietary fiber and are low in calories. The olives and nuts in the filling provide healthy fats and protein. Basil and red bell peppers are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which support immune function and reduce inflammation. Gorgonzola cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones. However, it is also high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.