Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) Recipe
Spanakorizo is a traditional Greek dish combining tender spinach and fluffy rice, gently cooked with olive oil, fresh herbs, and tangy tomato. Perfect as a light main or side, this vegetarian comfort food is flavorful, nutritious, and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 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
Grains
- 1/2 cup long grain rice, rinsed
Liquids & Oils
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 cup water
- lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the long grain rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Dice the onion or spring onions, peel and dice the tomato, roughly chop the spinach, parsley, and dill after removing any tough stems.
- Sauté Onions: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté gently for about 5 minutes or until softened and translucent, being careful not to brown them.
- Add Tomato and Rice: Stir in the diced tomato (or tomato paste) and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the rinsed rice and stir thoroughly to coat the grains in the oil and tomato mixture.
- Add Greens and Water: Add the roughly chopped spinach, parsley, dill, and the cup of water to the saucepan. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Until Cooked: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Avoid stirring often to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the Spanakorizo rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired for added brightness.
Notes
- For a deeper tomato flavor, substitute the fresh tomato with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.
- Use spring onions instead of regular onions for a milder taste.
- If you prefer, use brown rice but increase the cooking time and water accordingly.
- Spanakorizo is traditionally served with lemon wedges to enhance its fresh flavors.
- This dish is naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
