Are you looking for a versatile and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day? Look no further than spinach and rice, a match made in heaven! In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and flavorful recipes that combine the goodness of spinach with the comfort of rice. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a light and refreshing salad, we’ve got you covered.
From creamy casseroles to zesty salads, these spinach and rice recipes are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck gathering, or just a quick weeknight meal. With their rich flavors and textures, they’re sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
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Creamy Spinach and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of creamy spinach with fluffy rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked spinach mixture with the rice mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Spanakorizo with Lemon and Dill
This traditional Greek rice dish gets a bright and refreshing twist with the addition of lemon juice, dill, and spinach. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spinach and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the earthy taste of spinach with the comfort of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic, spinach, and cooked rice to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Spinach and Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the richness of garlic butter with the nutrients of spinach and the comfort of cooked rice, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped (about 2 cups)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the garlic butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Spinach and Rice with Parmesan
This recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines cooked rice with wilted spinach, garlic, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Serve as a main dish or side.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
5. Stir in the spinach, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Spinach and Rice with Chickpeas
This flavorful and nutritious recipe combines the creaminess of spinach with the crunch of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, chickpeas, and spinach; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
5. Add the diced jalapeños (if using); stir well to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Rice Soup with Lemon Zest
This refreshing soup combines the nutritious benefits of spinach and rice with a burst of citrusy lemon zest, perfect for a light and revitalizing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1 medium lemon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water or broth, and spinach. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the lemon zest and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Rice Bake with Feta Cheese
A deliciously simple and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This spinach and rice bake combines the creaminess of feta cheese with the earthy flavor of fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Add olive oil, chopped onion, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and smooth out.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Spinach and Rice Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the Mediterranean’s iconic ingredients with a hint of zesty lemon and garlic, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add the cooked rice to the bowl and stir until well combined.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Rice Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the nutritional benefits of spinach and brown rice with the savory taste of soy sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Add the spinach leaves and stir-fry until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Rice Risotto
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of risotto with the richness of melted cheese, spinach, and savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice, stirring to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Warm the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture, stirring constantly until absorbed. Repeat this process 3 more times, finishing with the last 1/2 cup of broth.
7. Stir in spinach leaves until wilted.
8. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the earthiness of spinach and rice. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chopped spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each tomato with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
4. Top with grated cheese (if using) and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Place stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Rice with Coconut Milk
This creamy rice dish is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional rice recipes. The addition of coconut milk adds a rich and velvety texture, while the spinach provides a boost of vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in the spinach leaves and coconut milk.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Rice Cakes with Herbs
A delicious and healthy snack or light meal that combines the nutritious power of spinach with flavorful herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for binding)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and parsley. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions. Shape each portion into a patty or cake shape.
5. Place the cakes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each cake.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cakes are lightly browned and firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Rice with Caramelized Onions
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the goodness of spinach, rice, and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in caramelized onion mixture, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Rice with Toasted Almonds
This flavorful side dish combines nutritious spinach with savory rice and crunchy toasted almonds, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in spinach, salt, and pepper. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the spinach mixture.
6. Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Rice with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the earthy taste of spinach, all wrapped up in a comforting bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the rice and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the sun-dried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Rice with Mushrooms and Thyme
This simple yet flavorful dish combines the nutty taste of thyme, earthy flavor of mushrooms, and creamy spinach all wrapped up in a savory rice bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, thyme, and spinach to the skillet. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and combine with mushroom-spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Rice with Crispy Garlic Chips
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the nutrients of spinach with the comfort of fluffy rice, all wrapped up with a crunchy garlic chip topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. For the garlic chips, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Combine cooked rice and wilted spinach in a serving dish. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and crispy garlic chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Rice with Roasted Red Peppers
This flavorful side dish combines the nutty taste of roasted red peppers with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a comforting serving of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese or toasted almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chopped red peppers to the skillet; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in cooked rice, spinach, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with feta cheese or toasted almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 20 mouthwatering spinach and rice recipes! From classic comfort dishes like Creamy Spinach and Rice Casserole, to international flavors like Greek Spanakorizo with Lemon and Dill, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pilaf, a flavorful stir-fry, or a satisfying soup, these spinach and rice combinations are sure to please. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover your new favorite dish!
