Name: Mediterranean Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, Tomatoes, and Feta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491105H58M57S
Total time: PT-491105H58M57S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old); 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, kalamata olives

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Mediterranean Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, Tomatoes, and Feta is a fresh, vibrant, and hearty dish that brings together bold flavors and nourishing ingredients in one bowl. It’s zesty from the lemon, savory from the chickpeas and feta, and beautifully balanced with the earthiness of spinach and the sweetness of tomatoes. I love making this dish for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as a side for grilled meats.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple to make but packed with flavor and texture. The lemon brightens up the rice, while the chickpeas add plant-based protein that makes it satisfying enough on its own. Spinach gives it a healthy, leafy boost, the tomatoes bring juiciness, and the crumbled feta ties everything together with a salty, creamy finish. It’s also great warm, at room temp, or chilled—making it super versatile. Mediterranean Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, Tomatoes, and Feta

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked white or brown rice (I usually use day-old rice for best texture)
Canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
Fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Crumbled feta cheese
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Lemon juice and zest
Salt and pepper
Optional: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, kalamata olives

Directions

I heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
I add the chickpeas and cook for 2–3 minutes, letting them lightly brown.
I stir in the spinach and cook just until it wilts, then add the cherry tomatoes and let them soften slightly.
I mix in the cooked rice, breaking it up with a spoon, and let everything heat through evenly.
I add lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper, then toss everything together to combine.
I remove from heat and top with crumbled feta and fresh parsley (if using), then serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 as a main or 6 as a side.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

Add protein: I top it with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a more filling meal.
Use quinoa or couscous: I swap the rice for other grains depending on what I have on hand.
Make it spicy: I add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Roasted veggies: I mix in roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra texture.
Vegan version: I skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up. This dish is also delicious served cold as a salad, so I often pack it for lunch the next day without reheating. Mediterranean Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, Tomatoes, and Feta

FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice?

Yes, I cook the rice first before adding it to the dish. I usually make it ahead or use leftover rice to keep things quick and easy.

What type of rice works best?

I prefer long grain white rice or brown rice, but jasmine or basmati rice also work beautifully for a more aromatic result.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, I thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pan. I squeeze out any excess water so it doesn’t make the dish too wet.

What’s a good substitute for feta?

I sometimes use goat cheese, queso fresco, or even grated parmesan if I want a milder or creamier flavor.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I portion it into containers and enjoy it throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge and tastes great warm or cold.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Lemon Rice with Chickpeas, Spinach, Tomatoes, and Feta is fresh, filling, and full of bright, bold flavor. I love how easy it is to throw together with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Whether I’m serving it as a main or a side, it always feels like a wholesome, feel-good meal that satisfies without being heavy.