Italian Rice

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with a batch of Italian rice. Packed with nutritious fresh spinach, sweet roasted red peppers and aromatic minced garlic, this eight-ingredient Test Kitchen-approved recipe whips up into a thoroughly tasty 15-minute dish. Pair it with lemon and thyme roasted chicken or one of our favorite grilled seafood recipes as part of a feast that’s fuss-free and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Italian Rice Ingredients

• Garlic: Minced garlic imparts a savory flavor base and distinct aroma to this Italian rice dish.
• Olive oil: A staple in Italian cooking, olive oil is used to saute the garlic, and it adds a rich flavor.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrients, color and texture to the rice.
• Balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, balancing the other rich flavors of the dish.
• Cooked rice: Hot, fluffy rice serves as the hearty base of this dish. You can use any type of rice you like, such as basmati or arborio.
• Sweet red peppers: Roasted red peppers add a burst of color and smoky sweetness that complements the savory garlic and spinach. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can roast your own peppers before starting the recipe.

Directions

Step 1: Saute the garlic and spinach

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In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saute for one minute, until fragrant. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach. Cover and cook for three to four minutes or until tender, then drain well.

Step 2: Add the seasonings and rice

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Add the balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper to the skillet. Then add the cooked rice and roasted red peppers, stirring until everything is combined. Cook the mixture over medium heat for a couple of minutes, until it’s heated through.

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Italian Rice Variations

• Give it a protein boost: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp or Italian sausage to make this a heartier dish. Or keep things vegetarian-friendly by adding a can of chickpeas or white beans.
• Add more vegetables: Adding sauteed mushrooms, zucchini, artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes will give this Italian rice extra flavor and texture.
• Make it cheesy: Top the rice with freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for a richer dish.
• Herb it up: Mix in fresh basil, oregano or parsley for more Italian flair.
• Add some nuts: Toss in some heart-healthy nuts, like toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds, for added crunch and a boost of nutrition.

How to Store Italian Rice

Leftovers of this Italian rice recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Can you freeze Italian rice?

Yes, you can freeze Italian rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze them for up to three months. Thaw the rice overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Italian Rice Tips

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What kind of rice works best for Italian rice?

While any cooked rice will work, long grain white rice and basmati work particularly well for this Italian rice dish because of their light and fluffy texture. If you do use a short grain variety like arborio or carnaroli, you’ll get a creamier dish similar to risotto.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh when making Italian rice?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

Can you use brown rice to make this Italian rice recipe?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the final dish, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. If you’re in a rush, you can use precooked brown rice or microwaveable pouches, like one of our Test Kitchen’s favorite instant rice brands.

What can you serve with Italian rice?

For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve this Italian rice dish with chicken piccata or veal scallopini. You can’t go wrong by including a platter of grilled vegetables or grilled seafood, such as these grilled lobster tails.