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Lemony Spinach Feta Rice Casserole with Chickpeas Recipe

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3.9 from 87 reviews

This Lemony Spinach Feta Rice Casserole with Chickpeas is a vibrant and healthy one-pan dish combining tender spinach, protein-rich chickpeas, tangy lemon, and creamy feta cheese. Perfect as a wholesome main or a flavorful side, it features simple ingredients cooked on the stovetop and finished in the oven for a golden, slightly crisp top.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt, divided
  • 6 cups baby spinach, packed
  • 3 cups cooked rice (long-grain brown or white)
  • 1 19 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 medium lemon, juice of
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat and sauté onion and garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Heat an oven-safe frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
  2. Cook down spinach: Add the packed baby spinach to the pan. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume. Add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and stir to distribute evenly.
  3. Add remaining ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the drained chickpeas, cooked rice, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and dried dill. Mix everything well. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning or add more salt if needed.
  4. Press mixture evenly: Using the back of a spatula or spoon, spread the spinach and rice mixture evenly across the pan. Gently press it down to compact the mixture slightly.
  5. Add cheese topping and bake: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and crumbled feta evenly over the top of the pressed rice mixture. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the top just starts to brown and crisp slightly.
  6. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm as a side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course.

Notes

  • Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Rice Choice: Use your favorite cooked rice; brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrients while white rice provides a softer texture.
  • Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute the feta and parmesan cheeses with similar crumbly or grated cheeses if desired.
  • Make it Vegan: Substitute the cheeses with vegan-friendly alternatives to make this casserole vegan.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/lemony-spinach-feta-rice-casserole-with-chickpeas-recipe/