Green Rice Recipe

There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that not only looks vibrant but tastes like a burst of fresh flavors. When I whip up this heavenly green rice, it feels like a mini adventure with each bite, infusing a sense of vitality and zest into any meal.

One of my favorite dishes is Green Rice, a flavorful and vibrant dish made with nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh spinach, cilantro, and parsley, combined with an aromatic blend of garlic and onion sautéed in olive oil. It’s simply delicious, and healthy too.

The recipe calls for fresh lime juice, which brightens the taste of the dish, and I like to add just a hint of jalapeño to make it zesty and fun. This is a terrific side to any number of main dishes, and it also works well as a stand-alone light meal.

Green Rice Recipe Ingredients

• Long-grain white rice: Provides a good source of carbohydrates, giving energy.
• Spinach leaves: Rich in iron, vitamins, and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
• Olive oil: Heart-healthy fat, adds richness and aids nutrient absorption.
• Jalapeño: Adds a mild heat, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Lime juice: Brightens flavor with acidity, high in vitamin C.

Green Rice Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make this Green Rice Recipe

1. In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion, chopped, and sauté until you can see through it, about 4-5 minutes.

2. Combine the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until you can smell it.

3. Add the rice to the saucepan and cook it, stirring often, for 1-2 minutes, until the rice is lightly toasted.

4. In a blender, combine the following:
– spinach
– cilantro
– parsley
– jalapeño
– lime juice
– 1/2 cup of the broth.
Blend until smooth.

5. Combine the green mixture with the rice in the saucepan. Then pour in the remaining 1 cup of vegetable broth and stir well.

6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Prepare with salt and pepper to suit your taste.

7. Boil the mixture, then lower the heat. Put a tight lid on the saucepan and let it go for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is done and the liquid is absorbed.

8. Take the saucepan off the burner and allow it to sit, covered, for another 5 minutes.

9. Use a fork to fluff the rice, making sure it is evenly combined with the green mixture.

10. Warm, serve the green rice and garnish it with extra lime wedges or cilantro if you like. Enjoy!

Green Rice Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium saucepan
2. Blender
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Chopping board
5. Sharp knife
6. Measuring cups
7. Measuring spoons
8. Fork
9. Medium bowl (optional, for gathering chopped ingredients)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will have to modify the cooking time and the amount of liquid used, because brown rice demands a longer cooking period and a larger volume of water.
• Q: How can I make the rice spicier?A: For extra heat, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add half again as much jalapeño.
• Q: Is there a substitution for cilantro if I don’t like it?A: More parsley can be used, or fresh basil or mint can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
• Q: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?A: Absolutely, the rice can be readied a day in advance. Just box it up and put it in the fridge. When you’re ready to go, just warm it on the stove or in the microwave, and you’re set. Rice is also a pretty forgiving food in terms of reheating.
• Q: How do I make this dish vegan?A: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to keep this recipe vegan.
• Q: What can I serve with this green rice?A: This pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish as a side, and you can also make it your main attraction with a very smoky, hearty bean dish for a vegetarian meal.
• Q: Can I add more vegetables?A: Yes, you may add diced bell peppers, peas, or corn to enhance the texture and nutritional value.

Green Rice Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Water or a broth of choice can be used instead of chicken or vegetable broth in the amount of 1 1/2 cups for a different flavor profile.
Substitute 1 tablespoon olive oil for vegetable oil or coconut oil if you prefer a more neutral taste.
Shallots can be used instead of a small onion for the same amount in a recipe. They bring a more delicate flavor to the dish.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves can be replaced with fresh basil or added parsley for a different herb profile.
One can replace 1 seeded and chopped jalapeño with a green bell pepper for a milder dish. For more heat, use a chopped-up serrano pepper.

Pro Tips

1. Rinsing the Rice: Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.