Spanakorizo - Greek Spinach Rice (2024)

Mar 18, 2024 by Tania Sheff · This post may contain affiliate links

This simple, delicious, authenticSpanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)makes a filling vegetarian meal or side dish. Fresh dill, chives, and lemon juice give it an extraordinary flavor and aroma.

This Spanakorizo recipe has always had a special place at our dinner table. Fragrant and rich, this dish is loved by kids and adults. Below, I'll teach you everything you need to know about this tasty Greek Spinach Rice. This main course dish is a great comfort food, perfect for cold days and when you want a simple dish that's truly satisfying.

Spanakorizo video tutorial

What is spanakorizo?

Spanakorizo is a classic Greek vegetarian rice dish made with fresh spinach and long or medium grain rice. It is probably one of the healthiest traditional Greek recipes because it's packed with lots of spinach, onions, fresh herbs, and lemon. While a basic Spanakorizo recipe contains only spinach, onion, and dill, there are many variations of this tasty dish.

What kind of rice to use

There are many opinions as to which type of rice works best in Spanakorizo. Some people enjoy short-grain white rice because of the creamy texture, and some prefer brown rice for additional health benefits. Long-grain rice is usually very popular. I use basmati rice in this spinach dish. It is a premium rice that cooks fast and turns out soft, yet fluffy, every time. I suggest for the first time that you start your Spanakorizo journey with basmati rice and then try other options when you feel adventurous. 🙂

How to make Spanakorizo

1. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot or large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions for about 5-7 minutes, or until translucent. Add the garlic, 2 tablespoons of dill, and 2 tablespoons of chives. Sauté for another minute or two.

2. Add the spinach, and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until it wilts down.

3. Add the kosher salt, black pepper, basmati rice, and vegetable broth and stir. Bring it to a boil, cover with a lid, and reduce to low heat. Simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Stir in the butter, fresh lemon juice and zest, and the remaining dill and chives.

5. Garnish with feta cheese and lemon wedges. Serve.

Tips for the best Spanakorizo

• Use fresh spinach.Using fresh baby spinach leaves over frozen chopped spinach is best because this recipe uses a lot of spinach and you want the best flavor and texture for it.
• Adjust seasonings.Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to this dish. Extra fresh herbs (such as fresh mint, extra dill, or parsley) can be added at the end.

Add-ins and substitutions

• Substitute green onions.For a milder flavor, make this with green onions instead of regular onions.
• Add tomato.Make this with tomato paste or tomato sauce to give this a rich, sweet flavor.
• Substitute other rice types.You can make this with other rice types, including regular long-grain rice, jasmine rice, or medium-grain rice. I think white rice works best here, but brown rice would work as well. If you like a more creamy texture, you might want to try mySpinach Risottowhich is made with arborio rice.
• Use different broth. While I am using vegetable stock here, you can use chicken or beef broth instead.

What to serve Spanakorizo with

• On its own.This satisfying dish can be enjoyed all on its own for a light lunch or dinner if you like.
• Beans.Serve this rice dish with black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans. Try it with theseBaked Black Bean TaquitosorMexican Zucchini Boats.
• Proteins.Enjoy this Rice with Mushrooms alongsideSpinach Stuffed Flounder,Chicken Stew,Hearty Beef Barley Soup, orEasy and Crispy Fried Tofu.
• Salad.Serve it with aFarro Salad with Apple and Arugula,Amazing Kale Salad,Refreshing Cucumber Salad, orIceberg Lettuce Salad.

How to make it vegan

If you'd like to try the vegan version of this dish, you can find it here:Spinach Rice.

This Spanakorizo is super flavorful and hearty, making it the perfect comfort food. I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Enjoy!

Printable recipe and nutrition information are located in the recipe card right below!

You'll love these recipes too:

• Spanakopita (Traditional Greek Spinach Pie)
• Spinach Risotto
• Sofritas
• Rice and Beans
• Easy Spanakopita Bites
• Spanakopita Quesadilla