Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This Greek Rice and Spinach recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or a light weekend lunch. It's packed with fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen! This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest. It's also a delicious dish, earning its place among the best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your delicious dish.
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Wilt the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the saucepan and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Don't overcook the spinach; you want it to retain some vibrant green color.
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Combine rice and broth: Add the long-grain rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the spinach and onion mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged.
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Simmer the rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork to break up any clumps.
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Stir in feta and dill: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh dill. This adds a burst of salty, tangy flavor that complements the spinach beautifully.
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Season and serve: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy and flavorful Greek Rice and Spinach!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of dried oregano or a bay leaf while simmering the rice.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add protein: Cooked chicken, chickpeas, or lentils would make this a heartier meal.
- Make it vegetarian: Ensure your broth is vegetable-based to keep it completely vegetarian.
- Use different greens: Kale or chard can be substituted for spinach.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 7-10 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
This Greek Rice and Spinach recipe is a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy food recipes at home. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion! It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking adventures. Experiment with different variations and create your own perfect version of this Mediterranean-inspired meal!