Heart-Healthy Green Rice (Arroz Verde)
Transform your side dish game with this vibrant and nutrient-packed Heart-Healthy Green Rice (Arroz Verde). This recipe puts a wholesome twist on the classic Mexican favorite, featuring nutty brown rice infused with a purée of fresh spinach, cilantro, parsley, and a hint of jalapeño for just the right kick. Cooked in low-sodium vegetable broth and brightened with a splash of lime juice, every bite bursts with earthy, zesty goodness. Not only is this dish visually stunning, thanks to its bold green hue, but it’s also loaded with vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect complement to your healthy lifestyle. Serve it as a flavorful side or enjoy it solo for a light, plant-powered meal. Ready in just about an hour, this easy recipe will become your go-to for heart-healthy, delicious cooking! Ideal for keywords like "heart-healthy recipes," "green rice," and "healthy side dishes."
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup cilantro leaves
- 0.5 cup parsley
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain it well and set aside.
In a blender, combine the spinach, cilantro, parsley, green bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic. Add a splash of vegetable broth to help with blending, and blend until smooth, forming a vibrant green puree.
In a medium-sized pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, for about 2-3 minutes until the rice starts to lightly toast.
Stir in the green puree and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld with the rice.
Add the remaining vegetable broth, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for about 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid to prevent steam from escaping.
Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow it to steam further.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a light, nutritious meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
511 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.0 g | 23% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.8 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1665 mg | 72% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 78.1 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.4 g | 55% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.0 g | ||
| Protein | 14.7 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 317 mg | 24% | |
| Iron | 8.9 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 2596 mg | 55% | |
*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.
