Green Rice With Spinach
A vibrant green rice dish packed with spinach, fresh herbs, and spices, perfect for a flavorful vegetarian main or side that appeals to health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat canola oil.
- Add diced onion, minced garlic, dried bell pepper, and minced jalapeno; sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until onions are tender.
- Add water, rice, dried parsley, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes (45 minutes if using brown rice).
- Stir in chopped fresh spinach and cilantro; cook over low heat for about 5 minutes until rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of jalapeno or omit it entirely. To boost the nutritional value, add other vegetables like peas or corn. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can enhance the taste; try adding them just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant green rice as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or as a base for a vegetable stir-fry. It pairs beautifully with Frosty Tomato Cups(Doubles As A Salad) for a refreshing meal. For a complete vegetarian option, consider adding black beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Rice With Spinach contains roughly 992 calories, with 9g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2229mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time—approximately 45 minutes. Make sure to adjust the amount of water accordingly and check the rice for tenderness before serving.
Can I freeze green rice with spinach?
Yes, you can freeze the green rice once it has cooled completely. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding a little water to restore moisture.
What can I add to make this recipe spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider adding more jalapeno or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You could also serve the dish with a side of hot sauce or sliced fresh chili peppers. Fresh herbs like cilantro can help balance the heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).