Spinach with rice

Spinach with Rice - A Healthy and Delicious Recipe

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

When it comes to simple, healthy, and quick recipes, spinach with rice is definitely one of the most appreciated choices. This dish not only combines the delicious flavors of fresh vegetables but also offers a nutritious option perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. Over time, spinach has been a staple ingredient in many cultures, valued for its versatility and nutritional properties. Let’s dive into preparing this dish!

Ingredients:
- 700g fresh spinach (about 1 kg before cleaning)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 tablespoon of cooking margarine
- 200g rice (you can use wild rice, but any type of rice will work)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the spinach well under cold water, ensuring you remove any impurities. After washing, drain it carefully and cut it into thin strips. An efficient method is to gather a bunch of leaves in your hand and chop them finely. This step will not only save you time but will also result in uniform pieces that will cook evenly.

2. Chopping the onion: Continue by chopping the two onions. If you enjoy the aroma of onions, you can slice them thinly. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for small cubes.

3. Sauté the onion: In a large pot or skillet, add the tablespoon of margarine and heat over medium heat. When the margarine has melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and begins to release its aroma.

4. Add the spinach: Once the onion has softened, add the fresh spinach. It will significantly reduce in volume as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the spinach simmer in its own juices for 10-15 minutes. This step will help retain the essential nutrients in the spinach, giving it a delicate texture and intense flavor.

5. Cook the rice: While the spinach is cooking, take a separate pot and fill it with water. Add the rice and a bit of salt, then boil it for 10-15 minutes. It’s important not to cook it completely, but to leave it half-cooked, as it will continue to cook together with the spinach.

6. Combine the rice with the spinach: After 15 minutes, drain the rice and add it to the cooked spinach. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let everything simmer together for another 5-10 minutes so that the flavors meld perfectly.

7. Add the garlic: In the last minutes of cooking, add the two finely chopped, crushed, or minced cloves of garlic, depending on your preferences. The garlic will give the dish a special note, and its aroma will enhance the overall flavor of the meal.

8. Finalization and serving: Check the taste and, if necessary, adjust with salt and pepper. The dish is now ready to be served! Spinach with rice is an excellent side dish that pairs perfectly with lamb roast or can be enjoyed as a vegetarian main course. I recommend serving it warm, with a light squeeze of lemon to highlight the flavors, or even with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Nutritional benefits:
Spinach is known as a superfood, rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, and calcium. It is an excellent source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Rice, on the other hand, provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy and satiety. Together, they create a nutritious, balanced, and very healthy dish.

Possible variations:
If you want to add a personal touch to your recipe, you can also include other ingredients. For example, you can incorporate feta cheese or parmesan for a richer flavor or add some nuts or toasted seeds for an extra crunch. You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as basmati or arborio, to achieve different results.

Perfect pairing:
Spinach with rice is a versatile side dish that can be paired with a variety of dishes. It is ideal alongside lamb roast, but also with grilled fish or chicken. It can also be served as part of a vegetarian meal, alongside a fresh salad or a light soup.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
2. How can I store spinach with rice for later consumption? The dish can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet before serving.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to try this delicious and healthy spinach with rice recipe. I assure you it will quickly become one of your favorite dishes! Enjoy your meal!