Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) | Traditional Mediterranean Comfort Food
Discover how to make Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice), a classic Mediterranean dish made with tender spinach, rice, olive oil, and lemon for a healthy, comforting meal.
Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) is a traditional and beloved dish in Greek cuisine, known for its simple ingredients, nourishing qualities, and vibrant flavor. Made with fresh spinach, rice, olive oil, onions, and lemon, this comforting meal strikes a perfect balance between heartiness and lightness. Often enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) is a testament to the beauty of Mediterranean cooking—where humble ingredients shine with bold flavor and healthful benefits.
This dish has been a staple in Greek households for generations, offering a vegetarian option that’s filling, flavorful, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re following a Mediterranean diet, looking for plant-based inspiration, or simply want a new way to enjoy spinach and rice, Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) delivers on all fronts.
What Is Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)?
Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) combines two key ingredients—spinach and rice—into one wholesome dish. It’s often cooked in a single pot, making cleanup easy, and relies on olive oil, lemon, dill, and onions for its signature flavor. The result is a tender, flavorful rice infused with the richness of olive oil and the freshness of herbs and greens.
This dish is a perfect example of Greek comfort food. It’s traditionally served with a wedge of lemon, some crumbled feta cheese, or a side of Greek yogurt. Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) can be eaten warm or at room temperature and is ideal for make-ahead meals or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients for Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)
Here are the ingredients for making Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice):
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (about 450 grams) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup medium-grain or long-grain white rice
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 green onions, sliced (optional but traditional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra wedges for serving)
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- Feta cheese, for serving
- Greek yogurt, as a side
- Lemon zest for added brightness
These ingredients come together to create the fresh, herby, and comforting flavor that makes Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) so popular.
How to Make Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)
Here is a clear and simple step-by-step guide on how to make Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice):
Step 1: Prepare the spinach
Wash the spinach thoroughly and chop it roughly. Set it aside in a colander to drain while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the onions
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green onions, and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 3: Add the spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the pot. Stir it in and let it wilt down, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. The volume will reduce significantly as the spinach cooks.
Step 4: Stir in the rice
Once the spinach is wilted, add the rice to the pot. Stir well so the rice is evenly mixed with the spinach and coated with the oil.
Step 5: Add liquid and seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring everything to a gentle boil. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Simmer the dish
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Add dill and lemon juice
Once the rice is tender, stir in the chopped dill and the juice of one lemon. Mix gently to combine all the flavors.
Step 8: Let it rest
Remove the pot from the heat and let the Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend and the rice firm up.
Step 9: Serve
Serve warm with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese if desired. It can also be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled for a light lunch.
Variations on Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)
One of the great things about Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) is how flexible it is. Here are a few variations to try:
- Tomato-based version: Add a few tablespoons of tomato paste or a chopped tomato when cooking the onions for a richer, redder version of Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice).
- Brown rice: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Add protein: Stir in chickpeas, white beans, or serve with grilled halloumi or eggs to boost the protein content.
- Use frozen spinach: In a pinch, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the pot.
No matter the variation, the base of Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) remains the same—simple, satisfying, and full of wholesome flavor.
Tips for Perfect Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)
Here are some helpful tips to make your Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) taste even better:
1. Use fresh spinach when possible
Fresh spinach gives the best texture and flavor. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
2. Rinse the rice before cooking
Washing the rice removes extra starch and helps prevent the dish from becoming too sticky or gummy.
3. Don’t rush the sautéing step
Take your time when cooking the onions—they add a deep flavor base that brings out the best in the dish.
4. Add spinach in batches if needed
If your pot is small, add the spinach in handfuls and let it wilt down before adding more.
5. Keep the heat low while simmering
Cooking Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) on low heat helps the rice absorb the liquid evenly and prevents burning at the bottom.
6. Adjust the lemon and dill to your taste
Some prefer their Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) more lemony or herby. Feel free to taste and tweak before serving.
7. Let it sit before serving
Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors settle and improves the texture.
8. Serve with extras
Top with crumbled feta, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of Greek yogurt to elevate the dish and add creaminess.
9. Make it your own
You can add other greens like chard or kale, or stir in cooked chickpeas or white beans for more substance.
10. Store leftovers properly
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Add a splash of lemon juice or water when reheating to refresh the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)
. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before cooking. This prevents the dish from becoming too watery.
2. What type of rice works best for Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)?
Medium-grain or long-grain white rice is traditionally used. You can also try brown rice for a healthier version, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid.
3. How do I keep the rice from sticking or getting mushy?
Rinse the rice before cooking and avoid stirring it too much once it starts to simmer. Use the right amount of liquid and let it sit for a few minutes after cooking to finish steaming.
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