Written by 10:30 am Quick & Flavorful Recipes

Easy Greek Meatloaf Wrapped in Grape Leaves: A Mediterranean Twist on a Classic

If you love traditional meatloaf but are ready to try something new, this Greek-inspired version is the perfect twist. By combining the classic comfort of meatloaf with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, this dish delivers a unique and satisfying meal. The grape leaves add an aromatic, slightly tangy taste, and the filling is packed with fresh herbs, spices, and a hint of lemon. It’s a recipe that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 500g ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 20–25 grape leaves, rinsed and patted dry
  • Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Filling
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, mint, egg, lemon zest, and juice. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined but be careful not to overwork the meat mixture.
  2. Shape the Meatloaf
    Take the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. You can either make one large loaf or divide it into two smaller ones depending on your preference.
  3. Wrap with Grape Leaves
    Lay out the grape leaves on a flat surface, overlapping them slightly to create a surface large enough to wrap the meatloaf. Place the meatloaf in the center of the leaves, then fold the leaves over the top, wrapping the loaf completely. Tuck the leaves underneath to secure them in place.
  4. Bake the Meatloaf
    Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the wrapped meatloaf in a baking dish and drizzle it lightly with olive oil. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through. You can remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the grape leaves to crisp slightly.
  5. Serve and Garnish
    Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Slice and serve it warm, garnished with extra fresh parsley or a drizzle of lemon juice. Pair with a simple Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Works

This Greek-inspired meatloaf stands out because it adds a Mediterranean flair to a traditional dish. The combination of ground meat, fresh herbs, and tangy feta creates a flavor profile that’s bright and savory, while the grape leaves add a unique texture and taste. Wrapping the meatloaf in grape leaves not only locks in moisture but also infuses the meat with the leaves’ earthy and slightly tangy flavor, elevating the overall dish.

The use of lemon zest and juice brightens the meat, cutting through the richness, while the fresh mint and parsley add a refreshing, herbal note. Feta cheese brings a creamy, salty element, and the grape leaves lend a slight bitterness that complements the savory meatloaf beautifully.

Tips for Success

  1. Quality Grape Leaves
    Grape leaves can be found in jars in most grocery stores or Mediterranean markets. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before using to remove any excess brine, which can be overly salty.
  2. Don’t Overwork the Meat
    When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be careful not to overmix. This can make the meatloaf tough. Mix just enough to combine everything evenly.
  3. Perfect Wrapping
    Lay the grape leaves in a way that they overlap slightly, ensuring that no part of the meatloaf is exposed. This helps to keep the loaf intact and prevents it from drying out.
  4. Flavorful Garnishes
    Serve the meatloaf with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil just before serving. You can also top with extra crumbled feta or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Pairing Suggestions

This Mediterranean meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and olives is a perfect accompaniment. Roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers would also complement the flavors in the meatloaf. For a more filling meal, you can serve it with orzo or a light couscous salad.

This Greek meatloaf wrapped in grape leaves brings a fresh, exciting twist to a classic comfort food. With bold Mediterranean flavors, it’s a dish that’s both hearty and light, perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress your guests with something a little different. Easy to prepare yet full of flavor, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

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