Spinach And Rice Ring(Otherwise Known As Green Rice In Our Family)
A savory green rice dish combining spinach, broccoli, and creamy mushroom soup, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with a comforting, veggie-packed flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until well blended and smooth.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Separate eggs, then beat egg yolks and add to the sauce, mixing well.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped cooked spinach, and the cream of mushroom soup.
- Add the sauce to the rice mixture and mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the rice mixture.
- Add frozen chopped broccoli (thawed if necessary) and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour until golden and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you're in a pinch, fresh spinach can replace frozen, just wilt it in a pan before adding. You can also use different vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to add variety. For added flavor, mix in some grated cheese or herbs like dill or thyme.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach And Rice Ring pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a protein boost, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can enhance the dish's flavor. It also makes a delightful brunch item alongside fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Rice Ring(Otherwise Known As Green Rice In Our Family) contains roughly 2011 calories, with 18g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 151g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2503mg per serving (109% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bake it fresh when you're ready to serve. If you do this, extend the baking time slightly to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and vegetable broth, adding sautéed mushrooms for flavor. Alternatively, any cream-based soup can work in a pinch, such as cream of celery or chicken soup.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Spinach And Rice Ring is a vegetarian recipe, as it contains no meat. Just ensure that the cream of mushroom soup you use is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands may include meat-based ingredients.
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).