Avga Gemista or Greek Stuffed Eggs

🥚🇬🇷 Avga Gemista – Greek Stuffed Eggs 🇬🇷🥚

Avga Gemista, also known as Greek Stuffed Eggs, is a delightful appetizer or side dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine. These stuffed eggs are a flavorful twist on the classic deviled eggs, with a Mediterranean flair.

📜 History:
The history of Avga Gemista is deeply rooted in Greek culinary traditions. Greece is renowned for its rich and diverse food culture, and this dish is no exception. While the exact origin is not well-documented, it’s likely to have been enjoyed by generations of Greeks. The Mediterranean region has a long history of incorporating herbs, olive oil, and fresh ingredients into its cuisine, and Avga Gemista is a testament to this heritage.

🥚 Components:
To prepare Avga Gemista, you will need the following ingredients:

• Hard-boiled eggs
• Feta cheese
• Greek yogurt
• Fresh dill
• Fresh parsley
• Green onions
• Kalamata olives (optional)
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika (for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Preparation Steps:
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare Avga Gemista:

1. Hard-Boil the Eggs:

   • Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water.
   • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
   • Cook the eggs for about 10-12 minutes.
   • Remove the eggs and place them in cold water to cool before peeling.

2. Cut and Scoop:

   • Once the eggs are cooled, cut them in half lengthwise.
   • Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   • Mash the egg yolks with a fork.
   • Add crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, chopped dill, parsley, green onions, and finely chopped Kalamata olives (if desired).
   • Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Stuff the Eggs:

   • Spoon the filling mixture back into the egg whites, overfilling slightly.

5. Garnish:

   • Sprinkle paprika for color and additional flavor.
   • Add a fresh mint leaf or a small sprig of dill for decoration.

6. Chill and Serve:

   • Refrigerate the stuffed eggs for at least 30 minutes before serving.
   • Serve them chilled as a delightful appetizer or side dish.

⏰ Time Needed:
The time required to prepare Avga Gemista depends on how quickly you can hard-boil the eggs and assemble the filling. On average, it takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This includes the time for boiling the eggs and allowing them to cool. Keep in mind that the dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until it’s time to serve, making it a convenient option for gatherings and parties.

Enjoy these Greek Stuffed Eggs as a flavorful addition to your Mediterranean-inspired culinary repertoire! 🇬🇷🥚😋

🥚🇬🇷 Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Avga Gemista (Greek Stuffed Eggs) 🇬🇷🥚

Here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Avga Gemista, a delightful Greek stuffed eggs dish:

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 2 halves of an egg):

• Calories: 85-100 kcal
• Protein: 6-8 grams
• Fat: 6-8 grams
• Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
• Fiber: 0-1 gram
• Sugars: 1-2 grams
• Cholesterol: 185-200 mg
• Sodium: 180-220 mg
• Potassium: 60-75 mg
• Vitamin A: 4-6% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 2-4% DV
• Calcium: 6-8% DV
• Iron: 4-6% DV

🌱 Health Information:

1. Protein: Avga Gemista provides a moderate amount of protein from the eggs, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function.

2. Healthy Fats: The fats in this dish primarily come from the eggs and olive oil. These fats are predominantly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can be part of a heart-healthy diet.

3. Low Carbohydrates: This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

4. Moderate Calories: Avga Gemista is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.

5. Cholesterol: Eggs are a significant source of dietary cholesterol, but the current understanding of dietary cholesterol’s impact on blood cholesterol levels is evolving. For most people, consuming eggs in moderation is considered safe.

6. Nutrient-Rich Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and mint provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can contribute to overall health.

7. Probiotic Yogurt: Greek yogurt contains probiotics that can promote gut health and aid in digestion.

8. Olive Oil: The use of olive oil in Greek cuisine is associated with potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease.

Remember that specific nutritional values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes. Additionally, Avga Gemista can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, and it offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors and fresh ingredients that can be a tasty and healthy addition to your meals.