Description
Spanakorizo is a classic Greek dish that combines tender spinach, creamy rice, and bright lemon flavors for a meal that’s wholesome, comforting, and full of Mediterranean charm. Perfect as a light vegetarian main or a flavorful side, this recipe is simple to make and endlessly versatile.
Ingredients
For the Spanakorizo:
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for serving)
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 4 scallions, sliced (white parts for cooking, green parts for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup arborio rice
- 1 lb fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, dill, or mint (chopped)
- 4 cups warm vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Zest from 1 lemon
- Juice from 1 lemon
Optional Garnishes:
- Drizzle of olive oil
- Lemon wedges
- Extra fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or mint)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
- Chop the onions, scallions, garlic, and herbs.
- Roughly chop the spinach and zest and juice the lemon. Keep the broth warm.
2. Sauté Aromatics
- Heat ¼ cup olive oil in a wide saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the diced yellow onion, the white part of the scallions, and minced garlic. Sprinkle with salt.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and turn translucent.
3. Toast the Rice
- Stir in the arborio rice and sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice begins to look slightly translucent.
4. Add Spinach
- Gradually add the chopped spinach, stirring as it wilts. This will take about 4–5 minutes.
5. Add Herbs, Seasoning, and Broth
- Mix in the fresh parsley, dill, or mint along with salt and black pepper.
- Pour in the warm broth and gently stir to combine.
6. Simmer the Dish
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs most of the liquid and is tender.
7. Add Lemon Zest and Juice
- Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lemon zest and juice for a bright, fresh finish. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve and Garnish
- Spoon the Spanakorizo into bowls and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with scallion greens, extra herbs, and lemon wedges for serving.
Notes
- Rice Choice: Arborio rice is recommended for its creamy texture, but medium-grain rice can be used as an alternative.
- Broth Temperature: Keep the broth warm to maintain a consistent cooking temperature for the rice.
- Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek