Green rice, often referred to as "arrozverde," is a vibrant and flavorful dish that's more than just its striking color. Using a blend of fresh herbs and greens, this rice recipe infuses every grain with a burst of freshness, making it a standout side dish.
It's a wonderful twist to the regular white rice, adding an extra layer of flavor and aesthetics to your plate. When you’re looking to bring some color and life to your meals, green rice is your go-to option.
Why This Recipe Works
Depth of Freshness: Unlike the typical rice preparations, green rice introduces a symphony of herbs and greens. Ingredients like cilantro, spinach, and parsley are not just for the color; they offer a unique flavor profile that is both earthy and refreshing. Each mouthful feels garden-fresh, making the rice not just a side dish but a highlight of the meal.
Universal Pairing: The brilliance of green rice is its adaptability. While it's a staple in many Latin cuisines, its neutral yet flavorful profile allows it to be paired with a wide variety of dishes across different cuisines. Whether served alongside grilled meats, tucked into burritos, or as a base for a bowl of saucy curry, green rice complements without overshadowing. The wholesome ingredients not only offer nutritional benefits but also make it an irresistible choice for those looking to add a healthy and tasty twist to their regular rice dish.
Ingredients
Rice - The base of the dish. You can use long-grain rice for a fluffier texture or short-grain for a stickier result. Substitute: Quinoa or couscous.
Fresh Spinach - This gives the rice its vibrant green color and packs in nutrients. Substitute: Fresh kale or Swiss chard.
Cilantro - Introduces a fresh and herby flavor. Substitute: Parsley or a combination of basil and mint.
Garlic - Enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Substitute: Garlic powder or minced shallots.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth - For cooking the rice, adding depth to its taste. Substitute: Water with a pinch of salt or bouillon cube.
Tips
- Always rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent stickiness.
- Don’t overcook the greens. Blending them while they are vibrant ensures a bright green hue to your rice.
- Using a good quality broth will significantly enhance the flavor of the rice.
- Let the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking, and then fluff with a fork to get the best texture.
- For added richness, stir in a small knob of butter or a splash of olive oil before serving.
How to Serve
Green rice is not just delicious, but it’s visually stunning. It serves as an aesthetic and flavorful side dish for many Dinners. You can present it plain to let its vibrant color shine or mix in other ingredients to add texture and variety.
- With Grilled Proteins: The freshness of green rice complements grilled chicken, fish, or tofu perfectly.
- In a Burrito Bowl: Use it as a base, then top with beans, veggies, guacamole, and salsa for a hearty meal.
- As a Salad: Let it cool, then toss with cherry tomatoes, feta, and a zesty vinaigrette.
Similar Recipes
Green Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups of rice
- 2 cups of fresh spinach
- 1 cup of cilantro
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear and set aside.
- In a blender, combine spinach, cilantro, garlic, and a bit of the broth. Blend until smooth.
- In a saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat.
- Pour in the green mixture from the blender and stir well.
- Cover and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.
- Remove from heat, let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Notes
- Always rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent stickiness.
- Don’t overcook the greens. Blending them while they are vibrant ensures a bright green hue to your rice.
- Using a good quality broth will significantly enhance the flavor of the rice.
- Let the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking, and then fluff with a fork to get the best texture.
- For added richness, stir in a small knob of butter or a splash of olive oil before serving.