Tasty Spanakorizo: Greek Spinach and Rice Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spanakorizo is a delightful blend of tender spinach, fragrant rice, and tangy lemon. The dish is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan with ease. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a quick and wholesome meal, as it requires only a few ingredients and minimal prep time. The dish is also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re making it as a light lunch or a side for dinner, Spanakorizo is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
4. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water), salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
8. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh dill (if using) just before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: You can easily add grilled chicken, lamb, or feta cheese to make this dish more filling.
• Rice alternatives: Try using brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for a different twist.
• Herbs: Fresh mint, parsley, or oregano can replace dill for varied flavor profiles.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Spanakorizo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

FAQs

How can I make Spanakorizo gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses rice as the base. Just be sure to check that your broth is also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh is unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the recipe.

Can I add other vegetables to Spanakorizo?

Absolutely! You can include vegetables like zucchini, peas, or even mushrooms to make it heartier.

What can I serve with Spanakorizo?

Spanakorizo can be served on its own or alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple Greek salad.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, Spanakorizo stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I use white rice instead of long-grain rice?

Yes, you can use white rice, but the cooking time might be shorter. Adjust the liquid accordingly.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

The recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy. Just ensure the broth is plant-based.

Can I freeze Spanakorizo?

While it is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Spanakorizo for up to a month. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly when ready to eat.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Ensure you follow the liquid-to-rice ratio correctly and let the dish rest after cooking to allow the rice to set.

Is Spanakorizo a good dish for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Spanakorizo is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the freshness of spinach and the heartiness of rice. It’s light, nutritious, and versatile, making it a great option for a healthy lunch or dinner. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this Greek classic is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and easy preparation.

Tasty Spanakorizo: Greek Spinach and Rice Dish

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Spanakorizo is a traditional Greek comfort food combining fresh spinach and rice, flavored with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. It’s a light, healthy dish perfect as a side or a light meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish, Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 2 tablespoons olive oil
2. 1 onion, finely chopped
3. 2 garlic cloves, minced
4. 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
5. 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
6. 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
7. 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
8. ½ teaspoon black pepper
9. 1 lemon, zested and juiced
10. 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

1. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
3. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water), salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Stir in the lemon juice and fresh dill (if using) just before serving.

Notes

1. Leftover Spanakorizo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat by adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
3. This dish can be made gluten-free by ensuring the broth is gluten-free.
4. Frozen spinach can be used as a substitute for fresh spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it first.
5. For variation, you can add other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms.
6. This dish is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.
7. If using white rice, adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg