Spanakorizo Greek Spinach and Rice Recipe
Spanakorizo is a traditional Greek dish combining tender spinach and fluffy rice sautéed in olive oil with fresh herbs and a hint of tomato, resulting in a light, flavorful, and comforting one-pot meal. Perfect served warm or at room temperature, often accompanied by a squeeze of fresh lemon for added brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 onion, diced (or 3-4 spring onions)
- 1 large tomato, peeled and diced (or 1 tablespoon tomato paste)
- 2 bunches spinach, roughly chopped (long stems removed)
- 1/3 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons dill, chopped
Grains and Liquids
- 1/2 cup long grain rice, rinsed
- 1 cup water
Oils and Seasonings
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- lemon for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, warm 1/3 cup olive oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking to create a flavorful base for your dish.
- Sauté the Onions: Add the diced onion (or spring onions) and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness into the oil.
- Add the Tomato: Stir in the diced peeled tomato (or tomato paste) and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- Add Rice and Spinach: Mix in the rinsed long grain rice, then add the roughly chopped spinach, stirring well so the spinach starts to wilt and combines with the rice evenly.
- Incorporate Herbs and Water: Add the chopped parsley and dill, pour in 1 cup water, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has absorbed.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature with an optional squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish.
Notes
- Using long grain rice helps prevent the dish from becoming too sticky, maintaining the light texture.
- For a more intense tomato flavor, tomato paste can be used as a substitute for fresh tomato.
- Adjust the amount of water slightly if using a different type of rice to ensure the rice cooks properly.
- Spanakorizo can be served as a main dish for a light meal or as a side dish alongside seafood or grilled meats.
- Fresh lemon juice adds a traditional tangy brightness that complements the earthy spinach and rice.
