Spinach with rice

Spring food with spinach and rice – an easy-to-make, healthy, and flavorful recipe. This recipe combines simple ingredients with efficient cooking techniques, offering a delicious dish perfect for spring meals or a quick dinner. I will guide you step by step on how to achieve the best result, sharing some practical tips and delicious variations.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 450 g frozen spinach or a bag of fresh spinach
- 100 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 2 medium onions
- 50 ml sunflower oil or olive oil
- 1 egg (optional)
- 300 g chicken (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of broth (optional)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onions. Chop them finely so they sauté evenly. If using frozen spinach, let it thaw at room temperature or in warm water. If you prefer fresh spinach, wash it well and chop it into large pieces.

2. Sautéing the onions and rice: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the rice and stir well to coat it with oil and lightly toast it. This step is essential for adding rich flavor to the dish.

3. Adding the spinach: Once the rice is sautéed, add the spinach and a cup of water. Stir well and let everything simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes. During this time, stir occasionally and, if necessary, add more water to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

4. Preparing the chicken (optional): If you choose to add chicken, you can prepare it separately. Cut the meat into cubes and fry it in hot oil until golden and well cooked. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finalizing the dish: When the rice and spinach are cooked, beat the egg in a bowl and add it to the skillet 1-2 minutes before turning off the heat. Stir well to distribute the egg evenly, allowing it to coagulate slightly in the heat of the dish. If you prefer, you can add a tablespoon of broth for extra flavor.

6. Serving: The spinach and rice dish is served warm, alongside fried chicken if you chose to include it. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side.

Helpful tip: You can also add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, you can sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Some nutritional information: This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the spinach, which is an excellent source of iron and vitamins A, C, and K. The rice provides healthy carbohydrates, and the chicken (if added) supplies quality protein.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time, so make sure to add enough water.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Absolutely! You can omit the egg and chicken, and the dish will still be just as tasty.
- What other spices can I add? Herbs like dill or fresh parsley can enhance the flavor of the dish.

Variations of the recipe: If you want to try a different version, you can use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-rich dish. Additionally, adding toasted nuts or seeds on top can provide a crunchy texture and delicious flavor.

The spring food with spinach and rice is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy and nutritious choice. Perfect for family meals or to be enjoyed alongside fresh lemonade or a glass of white wine, this dish will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!