Name: Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 onion, diced (or 3-4 spring onions); 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; 1/2 cup long grain rice, rinsed; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1 cup water; lemon wedges for serving (optional); Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 29 reviews

If you’re looking for a simple, comforting dish that bursts with vibrant greens and a hint of lemony brightness, the Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe is an absolute must-try. This classic Greek staple is a beautifully rustic and flavorful one-pot meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Made from fresh spinach, fluffy rice, and fragrant herbs, it captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking with minimal fuss and maximum heart. Whether you’re after a wholesome vegetarian dinner or a side dish to impress, Spanakorizo offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A stainless steel bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves, slightly wet and layered naturally, sits on a white marbled surface. Around it are fresh herbs including parsley and dill on the left, a measuring cup filled with white grated cheese below the bowl, a whole red tomato on the right, a small white bowl with white chopped onions, and a dark bottle of olive oil with a spout on the top right. A white cloth is draped loosely on the upper left, and two white square salt and pepper shakers are placed behind the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe shine, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the table. These basics work together to create layers of flavor, from the silky texture of olive oil to the fresh earthiness of spinach.

1/3 cup olive oil: Adds richness and that classic Mediterranean glow to the dish.
1 onion, diced: Offers a sweet, savory base; spring onions can be used for a milder touch.
1/2 cup long grain rice, rinsed: The fluffy foundation that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
1 large tomato, peeled and diced: Brings natural acidity and depth; tomato paste works as a handy substitute.
2 bunches spinach, roughly chopped: The star of the dish, adding vibrant color and a nutritional punch.
1/3 cup parsley, chopped: Fresh and fragrant, parsley brightens the flavors effortlessly.
2 tablespoons dill, chopped: A traditional herb that adds a lovely aromatic twist.
1 cup water: Needed to cook the rice and meld everything together harmoniously.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into balance.
Lemon for serving, optional: Adds a fresh zest at the end, enhancing the whole dish.

How to Make Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Rice

Start by heating the olive oil in a wide, deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook gently until soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, stir in the rinsed rice, letting it toast lightly for a couple of minutes. This step helps develop a nutty flavor and ensures the rice cooks evenly later on.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Next, mix in the peeled diced tomato or tomato paste and let everything simmer together briefly. Add the chopped parsley and dill. Their fresh herbaceous notes will infuse the dish as the rice cooks, creating that unmistakable Spanakorizo charm.

Step 3: Incorporate the Spinach

Gradually add the roughly chopped spinach, stirring to help it wilt and reduce in volume. The spinach’s vibrant green will give the dish its signature look and add a deliciously fresh, slightly earthy taste that balances the rice perfectly.

Step 4: Cook with Water and Season

Pour in the water, season with salt and pepper to your liking, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. This gentle cooking allows the flavors to marry beautifully while keeping the spinach tender but not overcooked.

How to Serve Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe

A white oval plate filled with a mixture of cooked rice and dark green leafy vegetables spread evenly, with two lemon slices placed on top and small sprigs of fresh dill scattered across. A silver spoon rests on the right side inside the plate, slightly scooping some of the rice and greens. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a white plate holding a fork at the lower left, a halved lemon at the upper left, some white cheese on a white plate above, and pieces of flatbread on the right side. A white cloth is partly visible at the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serve your Spanakorizo with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top; the citrus kick lifts the entire dish and complements the earthy spinach wonderfully. A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley can add a pop of color and freshness, making your plate look as enticing as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe is versatile, pairing beautifully with grilled fish or roasted meats for a complete meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside a crisp Greek salad or warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Spanakorizo stuffed inside baked tomatoes or hollowed bell peppers. It also makes a fantastic filling for filo pastry parcels or savory pies, turning this humble dish into an impressive feast centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Spanakorizo keeps impressively well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the rice from drying out. It tastes great cold or warmed up, making it a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Spanakorizo by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure it cools completely before freezing, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When thawed, the rice might be a bit softer, but the flavors remain wonderfully intact.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly. Add a fresh squeeze of lemon after reheating to brighten those flavors again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for Spanakorizo?

Absolutely! If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach works well too. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

Is Spanakorizo traditionally served hot or cold?

Spanakorizo is delicious both warm or at room temperature. Many people enjoy it as a comforting warm meal, but it also makes a refreshing dish on warmer days served slightly cooled with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.

Can I substitute brown rice in this recipe?

Brown rice can be used, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust accordingly and cook until tender. The nuttier flavor of brown rice can add an interesting dimension to the dish.

What if I don’t have dill? What’s a good substitute?

If you don’t have dill, try using fresh fennel fronds or a small amount of dried dillweed. Parsley alone can also work, though the unique aromatic flavor of dill is key to traditional Spanakorizo.

Is Spanakorizo suitable for vegans?

Yes, Spanakorizo is naturally vegan as it’s made with just vegetables, rice, herbs, and olive oil. It’s a great hearty and flavorful option for plant-based diets.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the humble Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe that makes it a treasured classic in Greek cuisine. It’s easy, wholesome, and full of fresh, bright flavors that feel like a warm hug in every bite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — once you taste it, I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen too.