Mediterranean Spinach and Herb Rice Medley
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this aromatic rice and spinach dish! Inspired by the traditional recipes found in "The Pressure Cooker Cookbook" by Toula Patsalis, this recipe utilizes a steaming method to create a light and fluffy rice that's perfectly infused with fresh herbs. The combination of dill, parsley, and the zest of lemon enhances the natural flavors of long-grain rice, while the spinach adds a nutritious touch. Perfect for Lent or any occasion where you desire a healthy and delightful side dish that complements various main courses!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/4 cup (none)
onion
1 medium (diced)
garlic cloves
2 (crushed)
fresh dill weed
1/3 cup (minced)
fresh Italian parsley
1/4 cup (minced)
long-grain white rice
1 cup (none)
water
2 cups (none)
tomato paste
2 1/2 tablespoons (none)
fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
fresh spinach
10 ounces (stems removed)
lemon wedge
for garnish (none)
Instructions
1
In a pressure cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and crushed garlic, sautéing them for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2
Stir in the minced dill and parsley, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors.
3
Add the long-grain white rice and stir well, allowing it to toast slightly for about 1 minute.
4
Pour in the water, then add the tomato paste, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until combined.
5
Place the fresh spinach on top of the rice mixture without stirring it in.
6
Secure the lid of the pressure cooker. Over high heat, bring the cooker to high steam, then reduce the heat to maintain steam without losing pressure. Place a heat diffuser between the pan and the heat source.
7
Cook for 8 minutes. Following the manufacturer's instructions, carefully remove the pressure.
8
Once the pressure is released, unlock the lid and gently stir the rice and spinach until the mixture is evenly combined.
9
Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mediterranean Spinach and Herb Rice Medley?
It is an aromatic rice and spinach dish inspired by traditional Mediterranean recipes, utilizing a pressure cooker for a light and fluffy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses olive oil and plant-based ingredients.
What type of rice should I use for this dish?
The recipe specifically calls for one cup of long-grain white rice.
How long does it take to cook in the pressure cooker?
The rice should be cooked for 8 minutes once the cooker reaches high steam.
What herbs are used in this rice medley?
The dish is flavored with 1/3 cup of fresh dill weed and 1/4 cup of fresh Italian parsley.
How much spinach is required?
You will need 10 ounces of fresh spinach with the stems removed.
Should I stir the spinach into the rice before cooking?
No, place the fresh spinach on top of the rice mixture without stirring it in before securing the lid.
What is the purpose of toasting the rice?
Toasting the rice for about 1 minute before adding liquid helps enhance its flavor and texture.
How much olive oil is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of olive oil to sauté the aromatics.
What ingredients are used for the liquid base?
The liquid base consists of 2 cups of water mixed with tomato paste and fresh lemon juice.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 2 crushed garlic cloves.
What is the recommended garnish?
Serve the dish warm and garnish it with fresh lemon wedges.
Is tomato paste necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 2 1/2 tablespoons of tomato paste are added to provide color and a rich Mediterranean flavor.
How do I prepare the onion?
Use one medium onion and dice it before sautéing.
Why is a heat diffuser mentioned in the instructions?
A heat diffuser is placed between the pan and the heat source to maintain even steam without losing pressure.
Is this dish appropriate for Lent?
Yes, it is described as a perfect recipe for Lent.
What is the source of inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by "The Pressure Cooker Cookbook" by Toula Patsalis.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
How is the pressure released?
Follow your pressure cooker manufacturer's instructions to carefully remove the pressure after the 8-minute cook time.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
The first step is to heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion and crushed garlic for about 1 minute.
Does the recipe use fresh or dried herbs?
The recipe specifies fresh dill and fresh Italian parsley for maximum flavor.
How much lemon juice is included?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
When do I stir the spinach into the rice?
Gently stir the rice and spinach together only after the pressure has been released and the lid is unlocked.
Can I use Italian parsley instead of curly parsley?
The recipe specifically recommends fresh Italian parsley.
What heat setting is used to bring the cooker to steam?
Bring the cooker to high steam over high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain the steam.
Is the garlic minced or crushed?
The recipe calls for the garlic cloves to be crushed.
How long do I sauté the herbs?
Cook the minced dill and parsley for about one minute to release their flavors before adding the rice.
What should the texture of the rice be?
The steaming method in the pressure cooker creates light and fluffy rice.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It is best served warm.
What kind of dish is this considered?
It is a healthy and delightful Mediterranean side dish that complements various main courses.