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 long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Creations

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Spinach Rice for its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. The combination of tender rice, fresh spinach, and zesty Mediterranean seasonings makes for a quick and nutritious meal. It’s one of those dishes that comes together seamlessly, yet feels special enough for any occasion. Whether I'm serving it as a side or a main dish, it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:57:35.879Z

When I first experimented with this Mediterranean Spinach Rice, I wanted to capture the essence of the Mediterranean diet: fresh, vibrant, and healthy. I was amazed at how easily the flavors meld together, especially with a squeeze of lemon at the end. It truly brightens the dish!

I learned that using a blend of spices like oregano, cumin, and garlic creates layers of flavor without overwhelming the dish. I also like to sauté the spinach lightly before mixing it in, ensuring it retains some of its nutrients while remaining tender. It’s a foolproof method that always impresses!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty flavor from toasted rice combined with vibrant greens
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that can be served hot or cold

The Importance of Selecting the Right Rice

When making Mediterranean Spinach Rice, the choice of rice significantly impacts the texture and flavor of the dish. Long-grain rice is recommended, as its slender grains stay fluffy and separate after cooking, allowing the vibrant spinach and seasonings to shine. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, you might consider using jasmine rice, but be aware it may require slight adjustments in liquid and cooking time due to its thinner texture.

To ensure perfectly cooked rice, pay attention to the boiling and simmering process. When the broth reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low, as high heat can cause the rice to cook unevenly, leading to a sticky consistency. It's also beneficial to avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain steam, which helps the rice achieve that sought-after fluffy texture.

Substitutions and Dietary Options

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, double-check that your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding chickpeas or lentils; they can enhance the dish's heartiness and will work beautifully with the existing flavors without overwhelming the dish.

If fresh spinach isn't available, you can easily substitute it with frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from glaringly diluting the flavors. Likewise, for a zesty twist, you can swap in fresh herbs like basil or mint instead of parsley, giving the dish a refreshing new profile.

Serving Suggestions and Make-Ahead Tips

Mediterranean Spinach Rice can be served hot as a stand-alone main dish or as a vibrant side alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. For a more robust meal, try adding some crumbled feta cheese on top just before serving—its creaminess complements the dish’s brightness beautifully. This dish is equally delightful when served cold, making it a perfect addition to a meal prep routine or a picnic.

To make ahead, prepare the rice and the spinach mixture separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. They can be kept for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the rice in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore moisture, and mix with the spinach right before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Mediterranean Spinach Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains.

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, heat the vegetable broth until it boils. Add the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and cumin for another minute.

Add Spinach

Gradually add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and then add it to the skillet with the spinach mixture. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss to combine, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

For extra flavor, consider adding some feta cheese on top just before serving.

Pro Tips

For a heartier version, add cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken. This dish can also be made in advance and served cold as a salad.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your rice turns out mushy, it may be due to excess moisture. Remember to check the rice-to-broth ratio and avoid removing the lid while it's cooking, as this lets steam escape. If your dish appears dry after combining, adding a bit more lemon juice or a dash of water can help bring back moisture without altering the overall flavor profile tragically.

Should you notice any bitterness in your dish, it could stem from the spices. Make sure to sauté the garlic just until fragrant and not allow it to brown, which can impart a harsh flavor. Taste as you go and adjust your seasoning gradually to reach the perfect balance.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to serve a larger group, this recipe scales beautifully. Simply maintain the 2:1 ratio of broth to rice, and adjust the seasoning proportionally. For instance, if you double the recipe, you should also double the olive oil and spices, ensuring the flavors remain consistent throughout the dish.

When scaling up, consider using a larger pot that can accommodate the increased volume without crowding. Cook the rice in batches if necessary, to ensure even cooking and prevent any clumping that can occur when cooking too much rice in one go.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How long does leftovers last?

Leftover Mediterranean Spinach Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this rice?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or can be enjoyed alone as a light meal.