I love how this Green Rice turns a simple meal into something special. The mix of herbs and veggies makes the rice pop with color and flavor, giving every bite a bright, garden-fresh taste. It’s quick to make, feels wholesome, and instantly livens up any plate.
Green Rice Recipe
Difficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes25
minutes280
kcalGreen Rice is a flavorful and vibrant dish made with fresh herbs, spinach, and aromatic spices. Light, fluffy, and full of color, it pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or beans, making it a versatile side for any meal.
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, chopped (optional, for heat)
2 cups fresh spinach leaves (or a mix of spinach and cilantro)
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
½ cup fresh parsley leaves
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 lime wedge (for serving, optional)
Directions
- Blend the greens: In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, cilantro, parsley, jalapeño, and ½ cup of broth. Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
- Cook aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the rice and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the grains to lightly toast.
- Add green mixture: Pour the blended green sauce into the pot and stir well to coat the rice.
- Simmer: Add the remaining broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest and fluff: Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh lime juice if desired. Serve warm with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or beans.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
Expert Tips and Variations
Try swapping spinach for arugula or adding fresh parsley for a slightly peppery note. Cooking the rice in broth instead of water adds depth, while a little grated cheese or a squeeze of lemon at the end can elevate the flavor. Don’t over-blend the greens, or the rice can become too soft and lose its vibrant hue. Lightly toasting the rice before cooking also adds a subtle nutty undertone. If you’re craving something sweet, pair green rice with a delicious Roblox cake.
How to Store and Reheat Green Rice
Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water, or microwave covered for 1–2 minutes to keep it fluffy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store and reheat Green Rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What type of rice works best for Green Rice?
Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, is best because it stays fluffy and doesn’t get sticky. You can also use brown rice, but the cooking time will be longer.
What are the different types of green rice?
Green rice can vary by region – in Mexico, it’s made with cilantro and poblano peppers, while in Peru, it often includes spinach and cilantro, and in some Middle Eastern cuisines, herbs like dill and parsley are used.
Where did green rice originate?
Green rice is most popular in Mexican and Latin American cuisine, particularly known as Arroz Verde, but variations exist worldwide, wherever fresh herbs are used to flavor rice.
