Description
Easy Spanish Rice is a quick dinner side dish that turns simple pantry staples into a warm, flavorful favorite. This easy recipe is made with tender long grain rice, tomato sauce, peppers, onion, and classic spices for a colorful, satisfying dish that fits right into your weeknight dinner ideas, easy dinner plans, meal prep routine, and everyday food ideas.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long grain white rice
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, then cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
4. Mix in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover tightly.
6. Simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
8. Fluff with a fork, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
Toasting the rice before adding liquid helps the grains stay fluffy and adds extra flavor.
Keep the lid on while the rice simmers so the steam can cook the rice evenly.
Add a splash of broth when reheating leftovers to bring back the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 255
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg