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Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe

4.7 from 86 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced (can substitute 34 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