How Many Calories Are in 2 Stuffed Vine Leaves?

November 21, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, two small vegetarian stuffed vine leaves can contain as little as 64-80 calories, but this can vary significantly. This article explores how many calories are in 2 stuffed vine leaves, detailing the factors that influence the final calorie count and how to make the healthiest choices.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for two stuffed vine leaves varies based on ingredients, such as vegetarian (rice and herbs) versus meat-filled versions, and whether they are canned or homemade. Portion size and oil quantity are key factors affecting the nutritional value.

Key Points

Calorie Range: Two vegetarian stuffed vine leaves typically contain 70-80 calories, while meat-filled ones are closer to 70-100 calories.
Ingredient Impact: The type of filling (rice and herbs vs. meat) and the amount of oil used significantly affect the final calorie count.
Canned vs. Homemade: Canned dolmades have a predictable, listed calorie count, whereas homemade versions offer more control but can be more variable depending on the recipe.
Vegetarian Options: Rice and herb versions are generally lower in fat and calories, making them a lighter choice.
Sodium Content: Canned stuffed vine leaves can be high in sodium, so checking the nutrition label is recommended.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a core ingredient, contributing healthy monounsaturated fats but also adding to the total calories.

Calorie Breakdown for Stuffed Vine Leaves

Determining exactly how many calories are in 2 stuffed vine leaves is not straightforward, as the calorie content is heavily dependent on the specific recipe and preparation method. A small vegetarian dolma will have a different calorie count than a larger one filled with meat and extra oil. Most canned varieties fall within a fairly consistent range, but homemade versions can vary widely.

The Vegetarian (Rice and Herb) Version

This is the most common type of stuffed vine leaf, often served as a mezze platter appetizer. The primary ingredients are rice, onions, fresh herbs like mint and dill, and olive oil, all wrapped in a vine or grape leaf.

Small, Canned Dolmades: Two small canned dolmades can contain approximately 64 to 80 calories. For example, one brand reports 70 calories for a two-dolmades serving, which includes about 3.3g of fat and 8.2g of carbohydrates. Another indicates 80 calories for a similar portion.
Homemade Dolmades: A homemade rice and herb version, especially if made with a generous amount of olive oil, can be slightly higher in calories. While the individual components are healthy, olive oil is calorie-dense. The final count will depend on how much oil is used in the cooking process.

The Meat-Filled Variation

In some cuisines, stuffed vine leaves are prepared with a ground meat filling (often lamb or a mix of beef and pork), in addition to the rice and herbs. The addition of meat significantly increases the protein and fat content, and therefore the total calorie count.

Meat-Filled Dolma: A single meat-filled dolma can contain around 35-50 calories. Therefore, two meat-filled stuffed vine leaves would be closer to 70-100 calories, depending on the size and fat content of the meat. One source shows four meat dolmades containing 175 calories, placing two at approximately 88 calories. The specific type of meat and preparation will influence the final count.

Canned vs. Homemade Nutrition

There can be subtle differences in the nutritional profile of canned versus homemade stuffed vine leaves. While the core ingredients are similar, the preservatives, oils, and ingredient ratios differ.

Comparison Table: Canned vs. Homemade (Per 2 Stuffed Vine Leaves)


Feature	Canned (approx.)	Homemade (approx.)
Calories	70-90 kcal	80-120 kcal (can be higher)
Sodium	350-530 mg	Highly variable, depends on seasoning
Fats	3.3-7g	Variable, often higher due to oil
Carbohydrates	8-16g	Variable, depending on rice ratio
Preservatives	Yes, may include additives	No preservatives
Control	Standardized recipe	Full control over ingredients

The Impact of Ingredients and Preparation

Olive Oil: A key ingredient in many versions, olive oil is calorie-dense. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving can add a few extra calories, but also healthy monounsaturated fats.
Rice vs. Other Fillings: Some modern variations may use other grains like quinoa, which would alter the nutritional profile. A quinoa-filled dolma may have a slightly different macronutrient balance compared to a traditional rice version.
Serving Size: The number of calories per piece can vary. Some brands or home cooks may produce larger or smaller dolmades, which changes the total intake per two leaves. Always check the packaging or estimate based on ingredients for homemade versions.

Conclusion

On average, 2 stuffed vine leaves contain between 70 and 100 calories, with vegetarian options typically being on the lower end of this range. The exact number depends heavily on the specific recipe, the type of filling (meat vs. vegetarian), the amount of olive oil used, and whether the product is canned or homemade. For those monitoring calorie intake, paying attention to these details can help make informed decisions. Both versions offer a nutritious snack or appetizer, though the lighter, vegetarian versions tend to be lower in overall calories and fat.

For a deeper look into a specific recipe's nutrition, consider consulting a detailed database like Eat This Much.

Final Takeaway

While the range is relatively low, especially for vegetarian types, moderation and awareness of the filling's ingredients are crucial for managing overall calorie consumption. Enjoying this delicious Mediterranean staple is certainly possible within a balanced diet by understanding its nutritional components.

How to Minimize Calories in Homemade Dolmades

Use less oil during the cooking process.
Fill with a higher ratio of fresh herbs and onions compared to rice.
Choose lean meat if making a meat-filled version.

These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final caloric value while still preserving the dish's delicious, traditional flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, stuffed vine leaves can be a healthy snack or appetizer. They are often low in calories, and the traditional fillings of rice, herbs, and olive oil provide carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats. The vine leaves themselves are also rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

The main difference in calories comes from the filling. Vegetarian dolmades, filled with rice and herbs, are lower in fat and calories than meat-filled ones, which contain more protein and fat from the ground meat.

Yes, olive oil is a significant contributor of calories in stuffed vine leaves. A recipe that uses a generous amount of olive oil will have a higher total calorie count than one with less oil.

To reduce calories, use less oil in your recipe, increase the ratio of herbs to rice in the filling, and opt for lean ground meat or skip the meat entirely.

Stuffed vine leaves typically contain a good balance of macronutrients. The rice provides carbohydrates, while the oil adds healthy fats. They also offer some protein and dietary fiber, along with micronutrients from the herbs and vine leaves.

Yes, there can be. Canned versions often have a standardized calorie count and may contain higher levels of sodium due to preservation. Homemade dolmades vary based on the specific recipe and ingredient portions, particularly the amount of oil.

For two average-sized, meat-filled stuffed vine leaves, you can expect the calorie count to be around 70 to 100 calories, depending on the fat content of the meat used.