Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe

Introduction

Spanakorizo is a comforting Greek spinach and rice dish that’s simple, fresh, and full of flavor. Perfect as a light main or a side, it combines tender greens, aromatic herbs, and a hint of tomato for a truly satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 onion, diced (or 3-4 spring onions)
• 1/2 cup rinsed long grain rice
• 1 large tomato, peeled and diced (or 1 tablespoon tomato paste)
• 2 bunches spinach, roughly chopped (remove long stems)
• 1/3 cup parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons dill, chopped
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
2. Step 2: Stir in the rice and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes to lightly toast it.
3. Step 3: Add the chopped tomato, spinach, parsley, and dill. Stir until the spinach wilts and mixes well with the other ingredients.
4. Step 4: Pour in 1 cup of water and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 15-20 minutes. Add more water if needed to prevent sticking.
5. Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For more depth, add a splash of white wine when cooking the rice with the onion.
• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried dill can be substituted in a pinch.
• Try adding feta cheese on top before serving for a creamy, salty contrast.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the rice has dried out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for Spanakorizo?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Thaw and drain the excess water before adding it to avoid making the dish too watery.

Is Spanakorizo traditionally served hot or cold?

Spanakorizo is typically served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature, especially during warmer weather.

Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe

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Spanakorizo is a classic Greek spinach and rice dish that is both comforting and nutritious. Made with fresh spinach, herbs, tomatoes, and rice, this simple one-pot meal is flavored with olive oil and lemon for a bright, authentic taste. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish, Spanakorizo is a traditional, wholesome vegetarian recipe easy to prepare on the stovetop.

• Author: Jeannette
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 onion, diced (can substitute 3–4 spring onions)
• 1/2 cup long grain rice, rinsed
• 1 large tomato, peeled and diced (can substitute 1 tablespoon tomato paste)
• 2 bunches spinach, roughly chopped (remove long stems)
• 1/3 cup parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons dill, chopped
• 1 cup water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the rice: Stir in the rinsed long grain rice and continue sautéing for another 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb the oil.
3. Add tomato, spinach, and herbs: Incorporate the peeled and diced tomato along with the roughly chopped spinach, parsley, and dill. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts down significantly.
4. Simmer the rice: Pour in 1 cup of water and increase the heat to medium-high. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. If the liquid evaporates before the rice is cooked, add more water as needed to maintain moisture.
5. Serve: Season the Spanakorizo with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the top for added brightness.

Notes

• Use long grain rice for best texture; rinsing the rice helps prevent stickiness.
• Substitute tomato paste if fresh tomatoes are unavailable, adjusting the quantity to taste.
• If spinach is unavailable, Swiss chard can be used as a substitute.
• Adding lemon juice before serving enhances the flavors and adds freshness.
• This dish can be served as a main vegetarian meal or as a side to grilled meats or fish.

Keywords: Spanakorizo, Greek spinach rice, vegetarian Greek recipe, spinach and rice dish, one-pot meal