Bright, herby, and comforting — this easy Spinach Rice is the perfect side dish or light meal that packs flavor, color, and nutrition in every bite.

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📝 Description

Spinach Rice is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together tender rice, sautéed aromatics, and vibrant spinach leaves in one wholesome and flavorful bowl. Whether you serve it as a side with grilled meats or enjoy it on its own with a dollop of yogurt, this dish is a simple way to add greens to your plate without sacrificing taste.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping. The best part? It only uses one pot and takes under 30 minutes to make. Light, fluffy, and naturally vegetarian, this recipe turns a humble ingredient like spinach into a mealtime star.

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🧂 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cumin (optional for a warm flavor)
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley

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🍳 Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the pan and stir to coat with oil and aromatics. Toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Simmer

Pour in broth, salt, pepper, and cumin (if using). Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

4. Add Spinach

Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the chopped spinach. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes — the residual steam will wilt the spinach perfectly.

5. Finish and Serve

Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs if using. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

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🔁 Variation (From Me!)

🌾 Brown Rice Version

For a more wholesome take, substitute white rice with brown rice and increase cooking time to 35–40 minutes. You’ll get added fiber and a nuttier taste that pairs beautifully with spinach.

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🧠 Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip the lemon juice — it brightens the flavor and cuts through the richness.
• Stirring in the spinach off-heat preserves its vibrant green color.
• For a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of coconut milk at the end.
• Add chickpeas, feta, or chopped nuts for extra protein and crunch.
• Use baby spinach for tender texture and quicker wilting.

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🔢 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 4)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 390mg

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🍽 Serve With

• Grilled chicken, salmon, or lamb
• Baked falafel or stuffed peppers
• Tzatziki or Greek yogurt
• Fresh tomato-cucumber salad or hummus