"Spanakoryzo" - Spinach And Rice
A hearty Greek-inspired dish combining tender rice and fresh spinach, cooked with onions and olive oil, perfect for a nutritious vegetarian meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute rice and chopped onion in olive oil, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.
- Add boiling water and salt; cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Wash spinach and cut into 1/2-inch lengths.
- Add spinach to the rice mixture.
- Mix thoroughly, cover, and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or mint for a refreshing twist. If you want a protein boost, chickpeas can be a great addition. Ensure to rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spanakoryzo warm as a main dish, or as a side alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Sliced Tomatoes With Basil Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese on top for added flavor, making it a delightful addition to your Mediterranean recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice to prevent it from drying out and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Spanakoryzo" - Spinach And Rice contains roughly 233 calories, with 7g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1788mg per serving (78% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the rice mixture. Frozen spinach is a convenient option and can save preparation time, but fresh spinach will provide a brighter flavor and texture.
What type of rice is best for Spanakoryzo?
Medium-grain rice, such as arborio or jasmine, works best for Spanakoryzo as it absorbs flavors well while maintaining a slightly sticky texture. Avoid long-grain rice, as it may not provide the desired consistency for this dish.
Can I make Spanakoryzo ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Spanakoryzo ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It’s a great dish for meal prep, as the flavors meld beautifully after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge.
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).