Greek Stuffed Onions Recipe (Salantourmasi)

Stuffed onions became an unforgettable memory for me on my last day in Athens. In a small, family-run restaurant, I watched as the mother cooked in the back, the father cleaned, and the daughter served. When I asked her to surprise me with her mom’s specialty, she brought out a plate of beautifully stuffed onions—tender, flavorful, and filled with warmth.

Now, I’m sharing this authentic Greek recipe so you can recreate the magic at home!

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Onions

• Authentic & Comforting – A traditional Greek dish packed with rich flavors and home-cooked warmth.
• Tender & Flavorful – Slow-cooked onions become irresistibly soft, soaking up the savory filling.
• Wholesome & Satisfying – A balanced mix of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices makes it both hearty and nutritious.
• Impressively Simple – Though it looks elegant, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare!
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as a comforting family dinner or a unique dish for guests.

Once you try Greek Stuffed Onions, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients for Greek Stuffed Onions

All the fresh ingredients prepped and measured—ready to start making traditional Greek stuffed onions (Salantourmasi)

• Large yellow or white onions – The star of the dish! Their layers become tender and sweet when stuffed and slow-cooked.
• Short-grain or Arborio rice, soaked – Creates a soft, creamy texture inside the onions.
• Olive oil – Enhances richness and brings out the flavors.
• Garlic cloves, minced – Adds depth and aromatic warmth.
• Lean ground beef or lamb – A hearty, flavorful protein choice.
• Tomato paste & tomato sauce – Intensifies the savory umami taste and adds a rich, tangy depth.
• Fresh parsley & mint, chopped – Adds a burst of freshness and Mediterranean aroma.
• Chicken stock or water – Keeps the filling moist while cooking.
• Dried oregano – A classic Greek herb that adds earthy, aromatic notes.
• Pomegranate molasses (optional) – A sweet-tangy touch for extra depth.

Tips & Tricks

• How Many Does This Recipe Make? – I used 8 medium onions, which yielded around 30 stuffed onions—perfect for sharing or meal prep!
• Don’t Waste the Onion Centers – After hollowing out the onions, finely chop the inner layers and spread them on the bottom of the pot. This enhances the flavor and prevents burning.
• Getting the Perfect Texture – If the onions still feel too firm after boiling, give them extra time—especially the outer layers, which take longer to soften.

Simple Substitutions

• Meat Alternative – Swap ground beef or lamb with a vegetarian mix of chopped tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and chickpeas for a delicious plant-based option.
• Rice Substitute – Replace short-grain or Arborio rice with bulgur or quinoa for a heartier, nuttier texture.
• Broth Swap – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a fully vegetarian version.

These simple swaps let you adapt the dish to your taste and dietary needs while keeping the flavors rich and satisfying!

What to Serve with Stuffed Onions

• Fresh & Light – Pair with a refreshing Greek Salad or a Fattoush Salad for a crisp contrast to the rich, savory filling.
• Hearty Feast – Serving a larger crowd? Stuffed onions go beautifully with roasted chicken and potatoes, drizzled with a creamy yogurt sauce for extra flavor.