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a plate of spanakorizo - Greek spinach rice on a grey table.
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Spanakorizo - Greek Spinach Rice

Spanakorizo is a traditional Greek rice recipe made with spinach, rice and herbs and is a delightful and healthier way to enjoy the flavours of Greece. Make this classic dish if you want to prepare an easy and healthy lunch in less than 30 minutes!
Course Lunch
Cuisine Greek
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 people
Calories 312kcal
Author Peter G

Ingredients

  • 80 ml olive oil
  • ½ red onion finely chopped
  • 4 spring onions green onions trimmed and finely chopped
  • 500 grams spinach washed, stems removed and roughly chopped (see note 1 &2)
  • 250 ml chicken stock
  • 80 grams rice medium grain, washed and rinsed (see note 3&4)
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon dill finely chopped

Instructions

  • Heat 60 ml of the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and spring onions (scallions), stir and allow the mixture to become soft and translucent.
  • Add the spinach and stir, ensuring it wilts and softens.
  • Add the chicken stock, rice, salt and pepper. Stir again and turn down the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and allow the rice to cook for approximately 15 mins.
  • Finish off the spanakorizo by adding 20 ml of olive oil, lemon juice and dill. Stir again to ensure everything is mixed through. Cover and allow to stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

  1. While I prefer to use fresh spinach for spanakorizo, you can use the frozen variety for this recipe. Substitute 300 grams (10 oz.) and prepare it by pouring over hot water and squeezing all the excess liquid. Chop it finely using a sharp knife before using. 
  2. Preparing the spinach. Make sure to remove the thick stems from the spinach (and the rigid inner rib of the silverbeet if using). Spinach is an earthy vegetable, and it tends to have dirt when it's picked. Clean it really well in a sink filled with cold water. Repeat this step a few more times until the water is clear. And to dry your spinach, use a salad spinner - it makes the task a lot easier.
  3. Wash your rice.  Wash and rinse your rice a few times in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This will help remove the excess starch and allow the grains to separate when cooked.
  4. If you want to up the nutritional value of this spanakorizo recipe, try using medium grain brown rice. Although this isn't part of the traditional recipe (and who am I to argue!) - it will require a few changes. Add an additional 250 ml (1 cup) of your preferred cooking liquid to allow the brown rice to cook. Basmati rice also works beautifully - the flavours will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!

Nutrition

Serving: 4person | Calories: 312kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 21g