This classic Greek appetizer (or meze) called dolmathakia (dol-mah-THAH-kya) are grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and fresh herbs. They may take a little bit of time to prepare, but they are worth the effort. Serve dolmathakia cold or at room temperature.

The use of grape leaves to wrap food dates back to the days of Alexander the Great. Dolma is the name of a whole group of stuffed vegetable dishes, but dolmadaki are specifically dishes made by wrapping either grape or cabbage leaves around a filling. Dolmadaki can be made in many different ways, using minced meat, vegetables, nuts, herbs, and spices.

While Americans tend to think of stuffed grape leaves as a Greek delicacy, dolmadaki may have originated in Turkey or Armenia. Certainly, there are many variations on the dish from the Persian Gulf, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran.

There are many variations on the ingredients listed below. For example, if pine nuts are not easily available, consider using grains, raisins, or even lentils.