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Spicy Green Rice: An Amazing Ultimate Side Dish for Any Dinner

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  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Spicy Green Rice is a vibrant, flavorful side dish made with fresh greens like spinach and cilantro, and a kick of heat from jalapeños. It’s the perfect addition to any dinner.


Ingredients

2 cups long-grain rice

3 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 cup fresh spinach, packed

1 cup fresh cilantro, packed

1 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Juice of 1 lime

Optional: Chopped green onions or fresh herbs for garnish


Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a blender, combine spinach, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, and 1/2 cup vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice, cumin, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Let the rice toast for 2-3 minutes to absorb the spices.
  5. Pour in the remaining vegetable broth and the blended green mixture. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs, if desired, before serving.

Notes

Adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the jalapeño for a milder dish.

For added protein, mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans.

You can use chicken broth for a richer flavor instead of vegetable broth.

Experiment with other herbs like basil or parsley for different flavor profiles.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg