Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 150g White Bread
• 200ml Milk
• 150g Feta Cheese, crumbled
• 100g Sun-Dried Tomatoes, chopped
• 600g Minced Meat (beef, pork, or a mixture)
• 4 Eggs
• 1 Onion, finely chopped
• 1 Garlic Clove, minced
• A pinch of Nutmeg
• Black Pepper, to taste
• Paprika, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Olive Oil, for greasing the pan

For the Rice Pilaf:

• 150g Rice (long-grain or basmati)
• 250ml Water
• 1 Carrot, finely chopped
• 1 Bell Pepper, chopped
• 1 Tomato, chopped
• Spring Onion, finely sliced
• Olive Oil, for sautéing
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

Steps to Make Mediterranean Meatloaf with Feta, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Rice Pilaf:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Soak the Bread:
   Start by soaking the white bread in the milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the bread absorbs the milk and becomes soft. Once softened, squeeze out any excess milk and break the bread into small pieces.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, soaked bread, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Season with a pinch of nutmeg, black pepper, paprika, and salt to taste. Mix everything together thoroughly until well-combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
   Grease a loaf pan or baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s evenly packed to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 2: Bake the Meatloaf

4. Bake the Meatloaf:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it with foil.
5. Rest the Meatloaf:
   Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meatloaf more tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice Pilaf

6. Sauté the Vegetables:
   While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the rice pilaf. In a medium saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrot, bell pepper, and tomato, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
7. Cook the Rice:
   Add the rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains in the oil and vegetable mixture. Pour in the water and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Finish the Pilaf:
   Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the chopped spring onion. Set aside and keep warm until ready to serve.

Step 4: Serve

9. Slice the Meatloaf:
   After resting, slice the meatloaf into thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter. Serve with a generous portion of rice pilaf on the side.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
    Optionally, garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor and a pop of color. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired meal!

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 540 kcal
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 960mg

(Note: Nutrition values will vary depending on the type of minced meat and cheese used.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can use ground beef, pork, or a mixture of both for a rich flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure the meatloaf stays flavorful.

2. What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers, olives, or even fresh tomatoes for a slightly different flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, concentrated flavor, so try to find them if possible.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the meatloaf can be prepared up to a day ahead. Assemble the meatloaf mixture and shape it in the pan, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You can also pre-cook the rice pilaf and reheat it just before serving.

4. What can I serve alongside this meatloaf?
In addition to the rice pilaf, you can serve this dish with a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or a light yogurt-based sauce to complement the richness of the meatloaf.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Leftover meatloaf freezes well. Simply wrap the slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Tips on How to Make the Best Mediterranean Meatloaf:

1. Soak the Bread Thoroughly:
   The soaked bread adds moisture and tenderness to the meatloaf, helping it stay juicy as it bakes. Make sure to squeeze out any excess liquid to avoid a soggy texture.
2. Use Fresh Feta Cheese:
   Opt for a good-quality feta cheese for maximum flavor. Crumbling it directly into the meat mixture ensures every bite has a tangy, creamy element that contrasts well with the savory meat.
3. Adjust the Seasoning:
   Mediterranean flavors rely on fresh herbs and spices. Feel free to adjust the paprika, black pepper, and nutmeg according to your taste. You can also add fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Don’t Overcook the Meatloaf:
   Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatloaf. Overcooking can make it dry, so aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for perfect results.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration:
  Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• Freezing:
  Meatloaf freezes well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean Meatloaf with Feta, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Rice Pilaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish. With a delicious blend of savory minced meat, tangy feta, and juicy sun-dried tomatoes, this meatloaf brings bold flavors to the table. Paired with a simple yet flavorful rice pilaf, this meal is sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a family dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers great results. Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of this Mediterranean-inspired dish!