Rice Verde for One or Two
Brighten up your table with Rice Verde for One or Two, a quick and vibrant dish that transforms simple white rice into a herbaceous, lime-kissed masterpiece. This recipe features a silky green puree of fresh spinach, cilantro, parsley, and a hint of optional basil, blended with garlic, lime juice, and olive oil for a burst of fresh flavor. The result is a lush, emerald rice dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, this perfectly portioned recipe is ideal for solo dinners or cozy meals for two. Serve it as a light main course or pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for an unforgettable side dish. Whether you're seeking effortless weeknight meals or a dazzling dinner side, this Rice Verde delivers both ease and vibrant flavor in every bite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1.5 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 0.5 cup fresh cilantro
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves (optional)
- 1 clove garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons pepper
- 1 stalk green onion (for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water (or vegetable broth), and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Meanwhile, in a blender or food processor, combine the spinach, cilantro, parsley, basil (if using), garlic, lime juice, olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and pepper.
Blend the herb mixture until it forms a smooth, vibrant green puree. Add a tablespoon of water if needed to help blend.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork and transfer it to a separate large bowl.
Pour the herb puree over the warm rice and mix gently with a spoon until the grains are well coated and vibrantly green.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or lime juice, if desired.
Transfer the Rice Verde to a serving bowl and garnish with thinly sliced green onion.
Serve warm as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled vegetables, chicken, or fish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
442 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.6 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2631 mg | 114% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 67.8 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.6 g | 13% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.7 g | ||
| Protein | 8.1 g | 16% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 114 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 5.0 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 480 mg | 10% | |
*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.
