Name: Spinach Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice (or any long-grain rice), rinsed; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin); 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for color); 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 2 cups vegetable broth (or water); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

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Spinach rice is one of my favorite ways to turn simple ingredients into a flavorful and nourishing meal. Tender rice is cooked with fragrant aromatics and plenty of fresh spinach, creating a dish that’s both comforting and wholesome. It works beautifully as a side or even as a light main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love spinach rice because it’s quick, versatile, and packed with nutrients. The spinach blends seamlessly with the rice, giving it a vibrant green color and a mild, earthy flavor. It’s also an excellent way to sneak more greens into my meals. Whether I serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or on its own with yogurt, it’s always satisfying. Spinach Rice

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon cumin seeds (or ground cumin)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for color)
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Directions

Rinse the Rice
I start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove extra starch and keeps the grains fluffy.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pan, I heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. I add cumin seeds (or ground cumin) and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then I stir in the chopped onion and cook until golden. I add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Spinach and Spices
I stir in the spinach, turmeric, and coriander, cooking until the spinach wilts and blends into the onions.
Cook the Rice
I add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir so each grain is coated in the spices and spinach mixture. Then I pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring everything to a boil.
Simmer
I reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Rest and Fluff
I remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then I fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Greek Style: I add dill, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Indian-Inspired: I stir in garam masala or curry powder for a spiced version.
Protein Boost: I toss in chickpeas, lentils, or shredded chicken for a more filling meal.
Cheesy Spinach Rice: I mix in feta or Parmesan just before serving for a creamy twist.
Brown Rice Version: I swap basmati for brown rice and increase the cooking time.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm the rice in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, then thawed and reheated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, I use thawed frozen spinach when fresh isn’t available. I just make sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it.

What’s the best rice for spinach rice?

I like basmati for its fluffy texture and fragrance, but jasmine or even long-grain white rice works just as well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often cook it earlier in the day and reheat it before serving. The flavors deepen as it sits.

What can I serve with spinach rice?

It pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish, and also complements vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables or lentil curry.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, I use olive oil instead of butter and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

Spinach rice is a simple, nourishing, and flavorful dish I keep in regular rotation. It’s easy to adapt, goes with almost anything, and always feels wholesome. Whether I’m cooking a quick side or a complete meal, this recipe is one I know will deliver every time.