Mediterranean Spinach Rice

Name: Mediterranean Spinach Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (dill and parsley), for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Balanced Eats

I love making Mediterranean Spinach Rice as a vibrant side dish or a light main course. The combination of fresh spinach, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or seafood. The colors and flavors are so inviting, but the best part is how quick and easy it is to prepare this dish. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and healthy meal ready to go. It's a staple in my kitchen, and I can't get enough of it!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:13:35.924Z

Making Mediterranean Spinach Rice brings a touch of the Mediterranean to my dinner table. Recently, I tried incorporating some fresh herbs like dill and parsley, which brightened up the dish even more. The rice absorbs all the flavors beautifully, creating a satisfying meal. I usually use basmati rice for its fluffy texture, which works perfectly with the spinach and lemon.

One tip I found particularly helpful is to sauté the garlic before adding the rice. This step enhances the aroma and adds depth to the overall flavor. It’s pure comfort in a bowl, and I always feel great knowing I’m serving something wholesome.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A fresh and healthy side that complements any main dish
Quick prep and cook time makes it a weeknight favorite
Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach and herbs

Choosing the Right Rice

For this Mediterranean Spinach Rice, basmati rice is my go-to choice due to its fluffy texture and fragrant aroma. When cooking basmati, it's crucial to rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch, which can make the rice sticky. After rinsing, let it soak for about 15-20 minutes before cooking; this enhances the grain's ability to absorb flavors and ensures even cooking.

If you're looking for a substitute, jasmine rice works well, or you can try quinoa for a gluten-free option. Just remember that quinoa has a different cooking time—roughly 15 minutes in simmering water will suffice. Adjust the liquid ratio accordingly; generally, use a 2:1 ratio of broth to quinoa.

Perfecting Flavor Balance

The key to achieving the vibrant taste in this dish lies in the fresh lemon zest and juice. The citrus not only brightens the overall flavor but also balances the earthiness of the spinach. When zesting the lemon, make sure to only scrape off the yellow part of the peel; the bitter white pith beneath can negatively affect the dish's flavor. I recommend using a microplane for finely grating the zest.

Additionally, fresh herbs like dill and parsley elevate the dish’s complexity. If you don’t have these on hand, feel free to experiment with dried herbs—just reduce the amount by one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Spinach Rice can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally until heated through. It’s a great companion to roasted chicken or grilled fish, making it a versatile meal choice.

Alternatively, consider freezing portions for a quick meal solution. Spread the cooked rice in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to freezer-safe bags once solid. It can be reheated directly from the freezer—just add a bit more liquid and reheat slowly to bring it back to a fluffy state.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Mediterranean Spinach Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (dill and parsley), for garnish

Once you've gathered your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect Mediterranean Spinach Rice:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the basmati rice to the pot, stirring well to coat the grains in the oil. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Add Spinach and Flavor

Once the rice is cooked, carefully fluff with a fork and fold in the chopped spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the spinach to wilt for about 2 minutes with the residual heat.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy warm as a tasty side or light main course.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Spinach Rice!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Adding some chickpeas can make it a fulfilling meal, and a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can enhance the Mediterranean flavors even more.

Enhancing Nutritional Value

Incorporating spinach not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of your dish. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. To maximize these benefits, use fresh, vibrant spinach and add it at the end so it wilts slightly but maintains its bright green color. Overcooking spinach can lead to a dull appearance and loss of nutrients.

For an extra nutrient boost, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers along with the onions. This will enrich the flavors and increase the number of vitamins and minerals while keeping the dish balanced.

Creative Variations

While the classic version of this recipe shines with just spinach, don't hesitate to get creative! For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives to introduce a salty depth to the dish. Adding chickpeas not only heightens the Mediterranean flair but also increases protein, making it a more filling main course.

If you prefer a cheesy touch, stir in some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan just before serving. This addition complements the lemon's brightness and creates a delicious creamy texture. Just be mindful of the salt levels, as cheese can add significant saltiness to the dish.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your rice is too sticky, it may have been overcooked or not rinsed properly. For firmer rice next time, ensure you stick to the cooking time and check the rice a couple of minutes before the timer goes off. If the liquid has not fully absorbed, keep it simmering with the lid on for a few more minutes.

Should you end up with leftovers that seem dry, don't worry! A drizzle of olive oil or a splash of broth mixed in can revive the dish. Fluffing with a fork before serving will also help separate the grains.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute basmati rice with quinoa or any gluten-free grain of your choice.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat and fold in the spinach just before serving.

→ What other herbs can I add?

Fresh basil or oregano can also complement the flavors well. Feel free to experiment!