Spanakorizo - Greek Spinach Rice
Spanakorizo or Greek Spinach Rice is a comforting dish made with spinach and medium grain rice then flavor boosted with dried herbs, garlic, onion, and a splash of lemon juice. This easy spinach rice recipe can be enjoyed as a vegetarian main for 4 people or as a side with your favorite protein (up to 6 people).
- Prep time
- 20 min
- Cook time
- 40 min
- Yield
- 6 servings
- Difficulty
- MEDIUM
Ingredients
Quantities are shown as originally provided.
- 1 cup medium grain rice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, (chopped)
- 1 pound baby spinach
- 1 lemon, (juiced)
- 2 cloves garlic, (minced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Kosher salt
- black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoon dried mint
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Feta, (for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Soak the rice: Rinse the rice well a few times until the water runs clear. Put the rice in a bowl and add water to cover it by 1 inch. Let sit to soak for 20 minutes or until you can easily break one grain of rice between your fingers.
- 2
Saute the spinach: Heat 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil in a braising pan. Add the onions and cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until soft and golden brown. Add the spinach, lemon juice, garlic, tomato paste, and a big pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Sautee the spinach until just wilted. Stir in the mint and dill.
- 3
Add the rice to the pan: Drain the rice well and add it to the pan. Add 1 ½ cups of warm water. Bring to a boil for 3 minutes until the water reduces a bit. Turn the heat to low and cover.
- 4
Cook: Let the rice cook undisturbed for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and fully cooked through and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- 5
Rest: Once cooked, let the rice sit covered for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
- 6
Serve: When ready, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with feta, additional finely chopped spinach, or minced parsley, if you like.