Delicious Spanakorizo (Spinach and Rice) Recipe

Are you ready to discover an amazing dish that is both nutritious and delicious? Say hello to Spanakorizo, a traditional Greek recipe that combines the goodness of spinach with the heartiness of rice! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a taste of Greek culture, where fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors come together. Spanakorizo has been enjoyed in Greece for centuries, often served during the warm months when spinach is at its best.

This dish is popular because it’s easy to make, packed with vitamins, and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get kids (and adults!) to eat their greens. So, let’s dive into the world of Spanakorizo and learn how to make this delightful dish!

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Be sure to mix it well with the onions and garlic!
4. Mix in the rice: Once the spinach has wilted, add the rice to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Add broth: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water), and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Finish with lemon and dill: Remove the pot from heat, stir in the lemon juice and dill for an extra burst of flavor!
8. Serve: Fluff the Spanakorizo with a fork and serve warm. Enjoy this delightful dish!

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a creamier dish, you can stir in a bit of yogurt or feta cheese just before serving.
• Feel free to substitute quinoa for the rice for a gluten-free option!
• Adding other vegetables, like diced tomatoes or bell peppers, can also make this dish even more colorful and nutritious!
• Be careful not to overcook the rice; it should be fluffy, not mushy.

FAQs

What can I serve with Spanakorizo?

Spanakorizo pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian dish. Fresh bread is also a perfect side!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen spinach works great in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

How long does Spanakorizo last in the fridge?

Spanakorizo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products!

What kind of rice is best for Spanakorizo?

Short-grain or medium-grain rice works best for Spanakorizo, but you can also use long-grain rice if that’s what you have.

Is Spanakorizo healthy?

Yes! Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, and when combined with rice, it makes for a well-balanced meal packed with nutrients.

Can I add other herbs to the recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or basil to suit your taste!

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Definitely! Spanakorizo is a great way to introduce kids to spinach and they often love the flavors!

How spicy is Spanakorizo?

This dish is not spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just adjust your cooking pot size and doubling the ingredients should work perfectly!

Now you have everything you need to make a delightful dish of Spanakorizo. Enjoy cooking, and most importantly, enjoy eating!