Green Rice

Transform your dinner table with a vibrant and flavorful bowl of Green Rice, a stunning side dish packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with herbaceous goodness. This recipe combines fluffy basmati rice with a nutrient-rich purée of fresh spinach, cilantro, and parsley, elevated by zesty lime juice and aromatic garlic. Toasted rice and sautéed onions add depth, while optional jalapeño delivers a subtle kick for spice lovers. Cooked in water or flavorful broth, this dish is an easy-to-make, one-pot wonder perfect for pairing with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or as a centerpiece for a plant-based meal. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a healthy, mouthwatering addition to your menu that’s sure to wow your family and guests alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 cups Fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup Fresh cilantro
• 0.5 cup Fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons Fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 1 small Onion
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1 small Jalapeño (optional)
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 cups Chicken or vegetable broth (optional, to replace water)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.

Step 2

In a blender or food processor, combine the spinach, cilantro, parsley, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño (if using), and 1/2 cup of water. Blend until smooth and set the green purée aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Finely chop the small onion and sauté it in the oil until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Add the drained rice to the saucepan and sauté it for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted and coated in the oil.

Step 5

Stir in the green purée, mixing well to coat the rice evenly with the herb mixture.

Step 6

Add 2 cups of water (or chicken/vegetable broth for extra flavor), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 8

Simmer the rice for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 9

Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow it to steam and fully absorb flavors.

Step 10

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm as a side dish or a main course garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1440.3 grams (1440.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	609

Total Fat 29.90g	38%
Saturated Fat 2.70g	14%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4160mg	181%
Total Carbohydrate 73.40g	27%
Dietary Fiber 5.50g	20%
Total Sugars 8.00g
Protein 14.80g	30%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 203mg	16%
Iron 7mg	41%
Potassium 1013mg	22%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.3%

Protein: 9.5%

Carbs: 47.2%