Authentic Greek Rice With Tomato Sauce

Greek rice with tomato sauce, or tomato pilaf, is a fragrant, savory dish that combines the richness of ripe tomatoes with the subtle flavors of herbs like oregano and basil.

Cooking it feels like a celebration. I’m preparing it for a group of close friends, food lovers who appreciate the balance of simple ingredients and deep, comforting flavors.

The process begins with sautéing onions and garlic, releasing their sweet aroma, followed by the addition of tomato paste and fresh tomatoes, simmering into a vibrant sauce.

As the rice cooks in this sauce, it absorbs all the flavors, turning golden. The atmosphere in my kitchen is filled with laughter, music, and the satisfaction of creating something warm and wholesome.

Everyone enjoys the dish, and the evening becomes a memorable feast, all thanks to this classic Greek comfort food.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the entire process, from ingredients to cooking instructions, so you can create this delicious Greek rice with tomato sauce in no time.

How To Prepare Greek Rice With Tomato Sauce?

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Course: Side Dish
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Greek
• Yield: 4 servings

Kitchen Utensils

• Medium Saucepan,
• Wooden Spoon,
• Knife,
• Chopping Board,
• Measuring Cups,
• Spoons

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati/jasmine rice)
• 2 cups water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons Greek olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 recipe Greek tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ celery stalk, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Additional salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients:

Begin by chopping the onion, garlic, celery, and measuring out the rice and spices.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In a medium saucepan, heat the Greek olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.

3. Add the Rice:

Stir in the rice and let it cook for about 1 minute to lightly toast it in the oil and spices.

4. Cook with Tomato Sauce:

Pour in the water (or vegetable broth) and the Greek tomato sauce. Add the dried basil, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer the Rice:

Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

After cooking, taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed.

7. Serve:

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Enjoy as a delicious and flavorful side dish to complement your meal!

Special Notes

■ Dietary Adaptations: This Greek Rice With Tomato Sauce is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by ensuring that your tomato sauce is plant-based. You can also swap the olive oil for any plant-based oil if you prefer.

■ Flavor Variations: If you want to elevate the flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of olives just before serving. These ingredients will give the dish an added zing and Mediterranean flair.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 380mg

How To Use Greek Rice With Tomato Sauce?

Greek rice with tomato sauce is a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of Mediterranean and Greek-inspired meals.

Serve it alongside grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or fish for a complete meal. It also complements roasted vegetables or can be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish when paired with a fresh salad.

For an added touch, sprinkle some feta cheese on top or garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for extra flavor. It’s the perfect addition to any family dinner or gathering!

My Tips For Making Greek Rice With Tomato Sauce

Here are my tips for making the perfect Greek rice with tomato sauce:

1. Fresh, ripe tomatoes will give your sauce the best flavor. If you’re short on time, opt for good-quality canned tomatoes or passata.

2. Don’t rush this step. Sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re soft and slightly golden brings out their natural sweetness, which deepens the flavor of the dish.

3. While dried herbs are fine, fresh oregano, basil, or parsley add a burst of bright, aromatic flavor to the dish. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra!

4. Allow the rice to cook slowly in the tomato sauce. This ensures the rice absorbs all the flavors, making it extra savory.

5. Drizzle a bit of olive oil at the end for a smooth, rich finish. It enhances the flavor and adds a little luxury to your dish.

6. After cooking, let the rice sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to settle and the rice to firm up nicely.

Is Tomato Sauce Good On Rice?

Yes, tomato sauce is great on rice! The rich, tangy flavor of the tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the mild, fluffy rice, making for a comforting and satisfying dish.

The sauce adds moisture and depth to the rice, while the subtle sweetness from the tomatoes balances well with the savory spices.

It’s a versatile combination that can be easily customized with different herbs and seasonings, making it a delicious base for a variety of meals.

What Kind Of Rice Do They Eat In Greece?

In Greece, the most commonly used rice varieties are long-grain white rice, often used for dishes like pilaf and soutzoukloukoum.

Greek cuisine also incorporates short-grain rice, which has a slightly stickier texture and is often used in dishes like rice pudding (rizogalo).

Basmati rice is also popular, particularly for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked.

Conclusion

Greek rice with tomato sauce is not just about preparing a meal, but about creating an experience filled with warmth, love, and shared memories.

The combination of fresh ingredients and the simple cooking process results in a dish that is both comforting and flavorful.

Serving it to friends in my kitchen creates a sense of connection, turning an ordinary day into something special.

The laughter and appreciation around the table remind me that food has the power to bring people together and elevate any moment.

This dish is a perfect reflection of the joy of cooking and the beauty of sharing meals with others.

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