Welcome foodies, to this mouthwatering recipe of garlic spinach rice, exclusively presented by Rice Cookers 101. This simple yet nutritious dish is perfect for any meal of the day, and promises to tantalize your taste buds with its comforting flavors and aromas. The combination of garlic and spinach imparts a unique earthy taste to the fluffy rice, making it a perfect side dish for any main course. So let’s gear up to embark on a culinary journey and create this magical recipe, that is sure to warm your heart and soul! We’ve made this garlic spinach rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

garlic spinach rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice in a fine mesh strainer and transfer to a medium pot.
  2. Add 2 cups of water to the pot, cover with a lid, and bring to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it up.
  5. Add 4 minced cloves of garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Add 2 cups of fresh chopped spinach to the skillet and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Once the rice is fully cooked, add it to the skillet with the spinach and garlic, and stir well to combine.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Remove from heat and serve hot.

garlic spinach rice

How long does garlic spinach rice last in the fridge?

Garlic spinach rice can usually be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days after cooking. It’s best to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer. When reheating, make sure to add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. If you’re not planning on eating it within 3-5 days, you can also store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag with any excess air removed.

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Low calorie garlic spinach rice recipe substitutions

To make this garlic spinach rice recipe lower in calories, a few substitutions can be made. Instead of white rice, brown rice can be used which is higher in fiber and takes longer to digest. This improved digestion can lead to feeling full for a longer period and reducing the chances of overeating. Similarly, instead of using vegetable oil, a healthier cooking oil such as olive oil or coconut oil can be used in moderation. Additionally, reducing the quantity of oil used can also help reduce calories. Additionally, instead of using two cups of fresh spinach, more vegetables such as carrots, peppers, and zucchini can be added to increase the nutritional value of the dish and reduce the calorie content. Finally, using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic or reducing the quantity of garlic used can also help to lower the calorie count.

What to serve with a garlic spinach rice?

Garlic spinach rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that can be served as a side or main course. To complement the taste of the garlic spinach rice, you could serve it with grilled chicken, fish or shrimp. A fresh side salad with a lemon vinaigrette dressing would also pair well with the rice. To add more protein to the meal, you could serve a simple bean salad on the side or even add some spiced chickpeas to the rice itself. Finish the meal with a light dessert like fruit salad or sorbet to balance out the rich flavors of the garlic spinach rice.

Whats the best sauce for a garlic spinach rice?

The best sauce for garlic spinach rice would be a simple yet flavorful garlic and lemon sauce. To make it, sauté a few cloves of minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add in freshly squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of salt. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to add some heat. Drizzle the sauce over the garlic spinach rice and toss to evenly coat. The lemon will add a bright, tangy flavor to the dish that pairs perfectly with the earthy garlic and spinach.

Garlic spinach rice health benefits

There are several health benefits of eating garlic spinach rice. Garlic, which is a key ingredient in the recipe, is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help boost the immune system. Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and Vitamin C, which are essential for good health. Rice provides carbohydrates that can give the body energy. However, the nutritional benefits of the recipe can be improved by using brown rice instead of white rice. Brown rice is a whole grain that is higher in fiber and contains more nutrients than white rice. Additionally, replacing some of the white rice with quinoa or other protein-rich grains can make the dish even more nutritious.

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