Introduction
This vibrant and flavorful green rice dish is perfect for adding a nutritious twist to your meal. With a blend of fresh herbs and vegetables, it pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins like chicken or salmon, making it a versatile side dish. The combination of cilantro, spinach, and a hint of spice elevates the humble rice to an exciting centerpiece on your table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ cups long-grain white rice
1 bunch cilantro (about 1 cup packed)
3–4 cups fresh spinach
1 shallot, peeled and roughly chopped
1 serrano pepper, ribs and seeds removed, roughly chopped (or substitute with a jalapeño pepper)
1–2 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt (use 1 teaspoon if using water instead of broth)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, or water (up to 2½ cups for stickier rice)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients from the fresh greens, allowing you to enjoy a healthy and flavorful side. It’s a delightful addition to any meal, bringing both color and taste to your dining experience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Rice
Rinse the rice thoroughly in a mesh colander. Shake off excess water or blot dry with paper towels to prevent splattering when added to the pan.
Make the Green Herb Mixture
In a food processor, pulse the cilantro, spinach, shallot, serrano pepper, and garlic until finely chopped.
Sauté the Rice
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the rice and sauté for 3–5 minutes until lightly toasted. Add the herb mixture and salt; continue to sauté for another 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Rice
Add the broth or water to the skillet, bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for approximately 15 minutes. Check the rice by fluffing with a fork; if necessary, add more water and cook longer until the rice reaches your desired texture.
Finish and Serve
Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and fluff with a fork to evenly distribute the greens. Serve alongside dishes like chicken skewers, air-fried chicken or salmon, tacos, beans, or creamy corn.
Notes
For a drier, fluffier rice, use 2 cups of liquid. For a stickier texture, use up to 2½ cups.
Cook Techniques
Rinsing Rice
Rinse the rice thoroughly in a mesh colander to remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy during cooking.
Chopping Herbs and Vegetables
Use a food processor to finely chop cilantro, spinach, shallot, serrano pepper, and garlic, ensuring a uniform texture and blending flavors effectively.
Sautéing Rice
Sauté the rice in olive oil over medium-high heat for 3–5 minutes until it is lightly toasted, which helps enhance its flavor and adds a nutty aroma.
Cooking Rice
Add broth or water to the sautéed rice, bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid evenly, resulting in a properly cooked grain.
Fluffing Rice
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and fluff with a fork. This separates the grains and redistributes the added greens for an even mix.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, if using brown rice, you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid, as brown rice typically requires more time and liquid to cook properly.
What can I substitute for cilantro?
If you dislike cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley for a similar fresh flavor, though it will change the overall taste of the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensuring that all other ingredients are plant-based, you can easily make this recipe vegan.
Is it necessary to use broth instead of water?
Using broth enhances the flavor of the rice, but water can be used as a substitute if broth is not available.
What dishes pair well with this rice?
This rice works well alongside chicken skewers, air-fried chicken or salmon, tacos, beans, or creamy corn for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The vibrant combination of cilantro, spinach, and spices in this rice dish not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritious boost, making it a delightful accompaniment to various proteins or vegetarian options. This recipe showcases how easily greens can be integrated into a staple food, transforming simple rice into a wholesome meal that is both colorful and appealing.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair with Grilled Shrimp
Serve the fragrant green rice alongside grilled shrimp marinated in citrus and herbs for a fresh and zesty meal.
Accompany with Spicy Tacos
Use the rice as a base for spicy tacos filled with seasoned beef, chicken, or beans topped with your favorite salsa and avocado.
Enjoy with Roasted Vegetables
Combine the rice with an assortment of roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Serve with Lemon Garlic Chicken
This rice pairs beautifully with lemon garlic chicken, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Create a Burrito Bowl
Use the rice as the foundation of a burrito bowl topped with black beans, corn, avocado, and salsa for a satisfying and wholesome bowl.
Combine with Creamy Corn
Serve the rice alongside creamy corn casserole for a comforting and indulgent side dish that balances texture and flavors.
