Name: Prasorizo: Greek Vegan Leeks and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 medium leeks (approximately 4 cups), trimmed, washed, and diced; 4 spring onions, sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnishing; 1/3 cup (80 mL) olive oil, plus additional for drizzling; 3/4 cup (160 grams) medium grain rice; 4 cups (32 fl oz) water; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe·4 from 5 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, vibrant dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine without any animal products, you absolutely have to try Prasorizo: Greek Vegan Leeks and Rice Recipe. This humble yet deeply satisfying meal pairs tender, aromatic leeks with fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, all infused with fresh herbs and bright lemon juice. It’s simple, wholesome, and packed with character—exactly the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large silver cooking pot filled with chopped leeks in light green and white colors, arranged in an even layer inside. A wooden spoon with natural wood texture is sitting on top of the leeks inside the pot. The pot is placed on a black gas stove, but the surface visible around is changed to a white marbled texture. The woman's hand is holding the pot handle on the right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of Prasorizo lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding texture, or bringing a touch of color to the plate. You won’t need a long grocery list to make this dish shine.

1/3 cup (80 mL) olive oil plus additional for drizzling: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables beautifully.
1 medium yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory base that deepens with cooking.
3 medium leeks, diced (approximately 4 cups): The star ingredient offering a mild, delicate onion flavor and lovely texture.
3/4 cup (160 grams) medium grain rice: Absorbs all the wonderful juices while keeping tender and slightly chewy.
4 cups (32 fl oz) water: Essential for cooking the rice and melding the flavors together.
Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the dish with a fresh, zesty finish.
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill plus additional for garnishing: Adds a fragrant herbal note that is classic in Greek cooking.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and balance.
4 spring onions, sliced: For a slight crunch and fresh onion bite at the end.

How to Make Prasorizo: Greek Vegan Leeks and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Leeks

Start by trimming and washing your leeks meticulously—leeks tend to trap dirt between their layers. Slice them in half lengthwise, then cut into half-inch half-rounds. This size helps them cook evenly and meld wonderfully with the rice.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Make sure to keep the heat moderate to avoid burning, which could add unwanted bitterness.

Step 3: Add and Cook the Leeks

Stir in the diced leeks and continue sautéing for another 5 minutes. The leeks should soften without browning, building a tender, fragrant base for your rice.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Sprinkle in the medium grain rice, stirring well to coat it in the oil and vegetable juices. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes—this step enhances the rice’s nutty flavor and prepares it to absorb the cooking liquid perfectly.

Step 5: Simmer the Rice and Leeks

Pour in the 4 cups of water and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the liquid level—if the rice isn’t fully tender but the water is absorbed, add a splash of boiled water and continue cooking briefly.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Herbs

When the rice is perfectly cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, salt, pepper, chopped dill, and sliced spring onions. These final touches transform the dish, adding brightness and herbal complexity.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Allow the Prasorizo to sit uncovered off the heat for at least 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the rice thicken up slightly for an ideal texture.

How to Serve Prasorizo: Greek Vegan Leeks and Rice Recipe

On a white marbled surface, there is a dark gray plate filled with a creamy risotto dish. The risotto has two main layers: a base of soft, white rice mixed with small pieces of light green vegetables and onions, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkled with fine green herbs like dill and a light dusting of black pepper. Around the plate, there are small bowls with soft white cheese and fresh dill herbs, as well as two lemon halves showing their yellow inside. A woman's hand is visible holding a fork near a gray cloth napkin and more fresh dill sprigs lay on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Drizzle a little more olive oil over the serving bowls and sprinkle with extra fresh dill for a vibrant pop of green and an aromatic lift. This final flourish makes the dish look as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Prasorizo works beautifully as a light main course but also makes a fantastic side. Pair it with simple grilled vegetables, a fresh Greek salad of tomatoes and cucumbers, or some roasted lemon potatoes for a complete, balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve prasorizo in individual ceramic bowls or hollow out ripe tomatoes and stuff them with the rice mixture. It’s not just delicious but a charming way to impress guests with this classic Greek vegan dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your prasorizo cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a quick reheat after a busy day.

Freezing

You can freeze prasorizo, though the texture of the leeks may change slightly. Place a cooled portion in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover prasorizo gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, or microwave covered, stirring halfway through. Add a little extra olive oil and fresh dill after warming for freshness.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of medium grain rice in Prasorizo?

Absolutely! White rice will work fine, though medium grain rice tends to have a creamier texture that suits the dish perfectly. Just adjust the water slightly if needed.

Is Prasorizo traditionally vegan?

Yes, this classic Greek recipe is naturally vegan, relying on simple plant-based ingredients like leeks, rice, lemon, and herbs to deliver its wonderful flavor.

What can I substitute for fresh dill if I can’t find any?

Fresh dill is ideal for its distinctive aroma, but you can substitute with fresh parsley mixed with a little dried dill or dill seed in a pinch.

How long does Prasorizo take to cook?

The entire cooking process takes about 35 to 40 minutes after prepping, including sautéing and simmering the rice, plus some resting time off the heat.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins to Prasorizo?

While the traditional recipe keeps it simple, feel free to toss in chopped tomatoes, spinach, or even chickpeas to boost heartiness while keeping it vegan and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Prasorizo: Greek Vegan Leeks and Rice Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. Its simplicity is deceptive because each bite is layered with fresh, vibrant flavors that celebrate classic Greek cuisine wholeheartedly. I can’t recommend this recipe enough for anyone looking to explore authentic, comforting vegan food that’s easy to prepare and genuinely delicious. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dish!