Name: Spanakorizo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 kg fresh spinach, rinsed; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 onion, chopped; 2–3 spring onions, chopped; 3–4 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dry mint; 1–2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 2/3 cup water or vegetable broth; 1/3 cup medium-grain rice; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste

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A wholesome and comforting Greek classic, Spanakorizo brings together tender spinach, fluffy rice, and aromatic herbs for a dish that’s both nourishing and full of flavor. Served with a splash of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of feta, it’s a simple yet satisfying vegetarian meal loved across Greece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spanakorizo is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. It’s naturally vegetarian, packed with greens, and incredibly versatile—great as a light main dish or a hearty side. The lemon and herbs brighten the flavor, while the rice makes it filling without being heavy. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Spanakorizo

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 kg fresh spinach, rinsed
Juice of 1 lemon
1 onion, chopped
2–3 spring onions, chopped
3–4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dry mint
1–2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
⅔ cup water or vegetable broth
⅓ cup medium-grain rice
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Directions

Wash the spinach thoroughly and set it aside to drain.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and spring onions, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add the spinach, dry mint, dill, and water (or broth). Bring to a boil.
Stir in the rice, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender, adding more warm water if needed.
Serve warm or at room temperature with a squeeze of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and crumbled feta if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Tomato-based: Add chopped fresh tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste for a richer flavor.
Vegan: Skip the feta or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Whole grain: Use brown rice instead of white, increasing cooking time as needed.
Extra veggies: Mix in chopped zucchini, leeks, or carrots for added texture and nutrition.
Lemon-forward: Add lemon zest along with the juice for a more citrusy punch.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. It can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature as part of a salad-style meal.

FAQs

Is Spanakorizo served hot or cold?

It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even cold—making it great for any season.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but thaw it first and squeeze out excess water before cooking.

What kind of rice works best?

Medium-grain rice is traditional, but you can also use long-grain or short-grain varieties depending on preference.

Can I add protein?

Yes, pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or chickpeas for extra protein.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth you use is gluten-free.

How do I make it more filling?

Serve it with crusty bread, a fried egg, or a side of roasted potatoes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—it tastes even better after the flavors have melded for a few hours.

How do I keep the rice from sticking?

Stir occasionally while cooking and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pot.

Can I use different herbs?

Yes, parsley, oregano, or basil can be nice additions or substitutions.

What is traditionally served with Spanakorizo?

It’s often served with feta cheese, crusty bread, and a light Greek salad.

Conclusion

Spanakorizo is a simple yet flavorful dish that embodies the fresh, wholesome spirit of Greek cooking. Whether you enjoy it as a main meal or a side, it’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to adapt, packed with nutrition, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

Emma