If you could bottle the feeling of sunshine, I’m pretty sure it would taste like this. For me, the magic of the Mediterranean is found in its vibrant simplicity—the zesty aroma of a freshly cut lemon, the golden richness of good olive oil, and handfuls of bright green herbs. It’s a way of eating that celebrates joy and flavor above all else.
That joyful spirit is exactly what you’ll find in this beautiful Mediterranean spinach and rice recipe. It’s a comforting, one-pot dish that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. Forget bland ‘diet food’; this is pure, nourishing comfort that tastes as good as it makes you feel.
Why This Vibrant Dish is a Weeknight Winner
I find myself turning to this recipe again and again, and I know you’ll love it just as much. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a feeling of comfort and wellness all in one bowl.
The best part?
- So Much Flavor: We’re talking bright lemon, tons of fresh dill, savory leeks, and garlic. Every single bite is an absolute delight.
- One-Pot Wonder: That’s right! Everything comes together in one pot, which means cleanup is a total breeze. This is the definition of a simple, no-fuss meal.
- Packed with Goodness: This dish is loaded with two pounds of spinach, making it incredibly nutrient-dense and high in fiber.
- Naturally Allergy-Friendly: Looking for a great gluten-free Mediterranean dinner? You’ve found it! It’s naturally gluten-free and plant-based, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
Celebrating the Heart of Mediterranean Flavor
The magic of Mediterranean cooking lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. This dish really lets a few key players shine, and understanding them is the key to its incredible taste.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This is the true liquid gold of the Mediterranean. We use a good amount here not just for sautéing, but also for finishing the dish. A final drizzle of high-quality EVOO at the end adds a luscious richness and a peppery, fruity flavor that you just can’t get any other way.
Lemon & Fresh Herbs
If olive oil is the heart of this dish, then lemon and dill are its soul! The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest provides a multi-layered brightness that cuts through the earthiness of the spinach. The fresh dill adds an unmistakable warmth that makes this a truly healthy spanakorizo recipe.
How to Build a Beautiful Mediterranean Plate
While this dish is hearty enough to be a main course on its own, I love to build a beautiful meal around it. The key is to keep it simple and fresh.
Serve a generous portion of the spinach and rice alongside a piece of grilled salmon or chicken for a protein boost. It’s also absolutely wonderful with a simple side salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion dressed in a little olive oil and red wine vinegar. A dollop of plain Greek yogurt on top is a perfect finishing touch!
Your Questions Answered About this Mediterranean Spinach and Rice Recipe
When you’re new to this way of eating, it’s natural to have questions! Let’s clear up a couple of common ones.
1.So, is rice allowed on the Mediterranean diet?
Yes, absolutely! The key is choosing whole grains over refined ones. That’s why we use brown rice in this recipe. It retains its fiber and nutrients, making it a fantastic and filling complex carbohydrate that fits perfectly within a healthy Mediterranean lifestyle.
2.What is a simple Mediterranean dinner?
This recipe is the perfect answer! A simple Mediterranean dinner focuses on a base of vegetables and whole grains, seasoned with plenty of herbs and healthy fats. This one-pot Mediterranean spinach rice checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, uses fresh ingredients, and is incredibly satisfying.
Alright, let’s get cooking! I can’t wait for you to fill your kitchen with the amazing aromas of this dish.
Verdant Greek Brown Rice with Spinach & Lemon
Ingredients
- 2 lbs 900 g fresh spinach, thoroughly rinsed
- 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 1 large leek white and light green parts only, halved, washed, and thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp dried spearmint
- 1/2 cup fresh dill chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
- 2/3 cup 120 g short-grain brown rice
- 2 ½ cups 600 ml low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 whole lemon zested and juiced
Instructions
- Build the Aromatic Foundation: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, warm 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced leek, stirring occasionally until they soften and become translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Infuse the Herbs & Spices: Stir the tomato paste into the aromatic base and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor. Add the dried spearmint, chopped dill, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their essential oils.
- Integrate the Liquid & Grain: Add the uncooked brown rice to the pot and stir to coat each grain with the seasoned oil. Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Hydrate the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let the rice simmer for 25 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time. The rice will be partially cooked.
- Wilt the Spinach: Uncover the pot. Add the fresh spinach in large handfuls, stirring it into the rice mixture as it wilts. You may need to do this in 3-4 batches. Once all the spinach is incorporated, replace the lid and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish with Acidity & Enrichment: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of finishing olive oil. Fluff gently with a fork and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh dill.
Notes
- Spinach Volume: Two pounds of spinach seems like a lot, but it cooks down dramatically. Use a very large pot and add it in batches as instructed.
- Serving Suggestion: For a compliant and satisfying meal, serve with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a small sprinkle of toasted, unsalted sunflower seeds for texture.
- Storage: This dish stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often meld and improve by the second day. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water if needed.
Nutrition Information
Per serving- Calories: 378 kcal
- Total Fat: 19.6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.7 g
- Sodium: 331 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45.5 g
- Dietary Fiber: 8.5 g
- Total Sugars: 6.6 g (0 g Added)
- Protein: 10.9 g
I truly hope you feel inspired to bring a little taste of the Mediterranean into your own home. This is what it’s all about—food that makes you feel amazing, from the inside out. I know this Mediterranean spinach and rice recipe will become a favorite in your rotation.
Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
