Go Back
Homemade Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice) photo

Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach and Rice)

This Spanakorizo is SO DELICIOUS! Creamy Arborio rice, fresh spinach, and fragrant herbs combine for a wholesome Greek classic.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Keyword: Easy, Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegan, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1+ cup veggie broth
  • 9 oz fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup olives chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in 1 cup of Arborio rice, allowing it to toast for 1-2 minutes to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Gradually pour in 1+ cup of veggie broth, stirring continuously to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Once the broth is simmering, add 9 oz of fresh spinach leaves along with 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme, rosemary, and sage. Stir until the spinach wilts and blends into the rice.
  • Rinse and drain 1 cup of canned chickpeas, then fold them into the pot along with ½ cup of chopped olives. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  • Once cooked, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes covered before fluffing the rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Notes

  • To prevent mushy rice, stir frequently and avoid overcooking.
  • If the rice seems dry during cooking, add a little more veggie broth gradually.
  • Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture; avoid wilted or pre-packaged spinach.
  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.