Spanakoriso(Spinach And Rice)
A flavorful Greek-inspired dish combining tender spinach, rice, and aromatic herbs, perfect as a hearty side or light main for vegetarians and spinach lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dry the spinach, then tear into pieces.
- Saute the onions, garlic, and rice in olive oil until the onions are soft and golden; add tomato sauce, and stir.
- Add spinach, bay leaves, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Add broth, cover, and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot as a side dish or cold as a salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg to the spinach mixture. If you're short on fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be a great substitute; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before use. You can also replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spanakoriso warm as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a cold salad with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of feta cheese. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Mediterranean Lasagna or Shish-Kabob (Laham Mishwee), making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Spanakoriso to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanakoriso(Spinach And Rice) contains roughly 864 calories, with 14g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2576mg per serving (112% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it has a longer cooking time. Adjust the broth quantity and cooking time accordingly, typically increasing the simmering time to about 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender.
What can I add to make Spanakoriso more filling?
For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chickpeas or diced potatoes. Both options complement the flavors well and provide extra protein and fiber, making it a more satisfying meal.
Is it possible to prepare Spanakoriso in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It's actually quite tasty when allowed to sit for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
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).