Spanakorizo is a traditional Greek dish that combines the flavors of spinach and rice with a tangy tomato sauce. It is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and nutritious meal that the whole family will love.
To make the best easy spanakorizo recipe with tomato, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup of rice
– 2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
To begin, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. Next, add the spinach and cook until it wilts down, stirring occasionally.
Once the spinach has wilted, add the rice to the pot and stir to combine. Then, add the diced tomatoes along with their juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, ensuring that the rice is evenly coated with the tomato sauce.
Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the spanakorizo to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the dish to thicken slightly.
Serve the spanakorizo warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or feta cheese if desired. This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or seafood.
FAQs:
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pot.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be longer.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the spanakorizo?
Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
4. Can I make spanakorizo ahead of time?
Yes, spanakorizo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I freeze spanakorizo?
Yes, you can freeze spanakorizo. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply chop them up and add them to the pot.
7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, using vegetable broth will enhance the flavor of the dish.
8. Can I add meat to spanakorizo?
Traditionally, spanakorizo is a vegetarian dish. However, you can certainly add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
9. Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?
Dried spinach is not recommended as it lacks the fresh flavor and texture of fresh or frozen spinach.
10. Can I use other herbs besides oregano?
Yes, you can experiment with other herbs such as thyme or basil to suit your taste preferences.
11. Can I serve spanakorizo cold?
While traditionally served warm, spanakorizo can be enjoyed cold as a refreshing summer salad.