Grape Leaves with Lemon Rice

Ingredients

• 16 leaves grape leaves
• 1 cup rice
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 0.25 cup dill
• 0.25 cup mint
• 3 stalks green onions
• 2 cloves garlic
• 0.25 cup pine nuts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups water

Instructions

1. 1Rinse whole grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. 2In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until rice is tender, about 35 minutes.
3. 3While the rice cooks, prepare the grape leaves by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry.
4. 4In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with lemon juice, olive oil, finely chopped dill, mint, minced green onions, and crushed garlic.
5. 5Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, then add to the rice mixture.
6. 6Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. 7Lay out a grape leaf with the vein side up. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture near the stem end of the leaf.
8. 8Fold in the sides of the leaf and roll tightly into a bundle. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
9. 9Arrange the stuffed grape leaves in a single layer in a large skillet. Add 1/2 cup water, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
10. 10Let the grape leaves cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
11. 11Serve the chilled grape leaves garnished with additional dill and mint.
12. 12Enjoy this nutrient-dense, flavorful dish as a delightful start to your meal.