Lemon rice with tuna and spinach recipe

Rice has always been a meal that can be prepared in various ways.

Today, we explore how to prepare lemon rice with tuna and spinach.

Ingredients

For the rice:

  • 1 cup of basmati rice (or any preferred rice variety)
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil

For the dish:

  • 1 can of (5-6) tuna
  • 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 small green chili
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder or paprika (optional)
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley

Cook the rice

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  • In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Then add the rice and stir for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add 2 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  •  Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Set aside and fluff with a fork.

Prepare the dish:

  • Heat one tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 20-30 seconds.
  • Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
  • Stir in the garlic and green chili (if using) and cook for 8 another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
  • Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Tuna:

  • Add the drained tuna to the skillet. Break it into chunks and mix gently with the spinach mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Combine with rice:

  • Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Mix everything gently to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the spices and tuna-spinach mixture.
  • Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm as a main dish or alongside a fresh salad or yogurt dip.