Greek-Style Rice

Greek-style rice
Cantinho Vegetariano (modified recipe)

Arroz à grega

This Greek-Style Rice is a colorful and flavorful main course (or side dish) that brings together tender vegetables, sweet raisins, briny olives, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s hearty enough to satisfy on its own, yet versatile enough to pair with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Naturally vibrant and easy to prepare, this dish balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes in every bite, making it perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 360
Ingredients Directions Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large carrot
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1/2 green bell pepper
  • 1/2 red bell pepper
  • 1/2 can corn (about 90 g drained)
  • 1/2 can peas (about 90 g drained)
  • 1/2 cup raisins (about 80 g)
  • 2 cups rice (about 370 g)
  • 4 cups boiling water
  • 2-4 tbsp olive oil (total: 1–2 tbsp for the vegetables, 1–2 tbsp for the rice, depending on preference)
  • 1–2 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley)
  • ½ lemon, juiced (or 1 tsp lemon zest)
  • Kalamata olives to taste (about 10 medium, 40 g, if you want a reference)
  • salt and garlic to taste
  • pinch of cinnamon or toasted pine nuts for garnish (optional)

Directions
 

  1. Cut the carrot and bell peppers into small cubes. Finely chop the onion.
  2. Heat 1–2 tbsp of oil in a pan. Add the garlic and onion and cook until translucent.
  3. Add the carrot and bell peppers. Sauté over high heat for 2 minutes, then add a splash of water (less than 1/2 cup) and let them cook until slightly tender.
  4. Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse well under running water, drain, and set aside.
  5. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. In another pan, heat 1–2 tbsp of oil with garlic. Add the rice and stir well.
  6. When the rice is completely dry and just before it starts to stick, pour in the boiling water. Stir, season with salt, reduce the heat, and cook until the water has evaporated. Check if the rice is cooked; if not, add a little more hot water and continue until done.
  7. Add the sautéed vegetables to the cooked rice. Stir in the corn, peas, raisins, and olives. Add oregano or parsley and lemon juice/zest. Mix gently.
  8. Optional garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or toasted pine nuts over the top for extra flavor and texture.
  9. Serve warm as a main course or side dish.

Notes

  • Total kcal with 2 tbsp oil: ~2,175 kcal ÷ 6 = ≈360 kcal per serving
  • Total kcal with 4 tbsp oil: ~2,415 kcal ÷ 6 = ≈400 kcal per serving

English Expressions

  1. Greek gift / Beware of Greeks bearing gifts – Refers to a gift that comes with hidden danger. (Presente de grego / Cuidado com presente de grego.)
  2. It’s all Greek to me – I don’t understand it at all. (Tudo isso é grego para mim.)
  3. Showered with rice – Primarily used in the context of weddings to symbolize blessings, fertility, and prosperity. ✰ At the end of the ceremony, the newlyweds walked down the aisle, smiling as they were showered with rice by their friends and family. (No final da cerimônia, os noivos caminharam até o altar, sorrindo enquanto recebiam uma chuva de arroz de seus amigos e familiares.)