Rice O Verde
A vibrant, savory rice dish featuring spinach, dill, and Parmesan that serves as a flavorful side perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring chicken broth and water to a boil.
- Add rice and salt; when boiling, reduce heat to low.
- Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add frozen chopped spinach and dill, pressing spinach down into the rice.
- Cover and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some garlic or onion before adding the broth. If you don't have dill weed, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can work in a pinch. For a heartier version, include diced cooked chicken or even shrimp. Adjust the spinach quantity based on preference or use fresh spinach for a different texture. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken Pie Superb With Sweet Potato Crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a flavorful side alongside grilled chicken or fish, or as a vegetarian main course. Consider pairing it with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside Chicken File Gumbo for a hearty dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Alternatively, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice O Verde contains roughly 322 calories, with 14g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2244mg per serving (98% 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 long grain rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. You'll need to adjust the liquid ratio and cooking duration accordingly, typically adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to follow the package instructions for best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. This will maintain the flavor while catering to a vegan diet.
How can I enhance the flavor of the spinach in this recipe?
To enhance the flavor of the spinach, try sautéing it briefly with garlic or onion before adding it to the rice. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg for added depth and brightness.
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).