Easy Spanish Rice

Name: Easy Spanish Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; ½ medium red bell pepper, diced; ½ jalapeño pepper (to taste); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain basmati rice, rinsed; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; 8 ounces tomato sauce; 8 ounces chicken or vegetable broth

Published: June 4, 2025

by Sofia

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Perfectly seasoned and vibrant, Easy Spanish Rice is a delightful dish that brings flavor to any meal. This one-skillet recipe is not only quick and simple but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With its mix of onions, peppers, and spices, this rice dish stands out as an excellent side that complements a variety of main courses.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled chicken, or even serve it on its own for a satisfying meal.
One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan!
Customizable: Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking Easy Spanish Rice a breeze. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet allows for even heating and helps achieve that perfect texture in your rice.
Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

Perfectly seasoned rice with onions, peppers, and Mexican spices cooked in one skillet.

For the Base

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced small
½ medium red bell pepper, diced small
½-1 jalapeño pepper
2 cloves garlic, finely minced

For the Rice

1 cup long grain basmati rice, rinsed
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

8 ounces tomato sauce
8 ounces chicken or vegetable broth

How to Make Easy Spanish Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet.
2. Cook these vegetables for about 4 minutes until they are softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Next, add the rinsed basmati rice to the skillet.
1. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, and salt.
2. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes until the rice becomes toasted and aromatic.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Now it’s time to create that delicious sauce!
1. Pour in the tomato sauce and broth.
2. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Done

To finish cooking your Easy Spanish Rice:
1. Cover the skillet with a lid.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
3. Taste your rice; adjust seasonings if necessary before serving hot.

This Easy Spanish Rice recipe not only fills your plate but also warms your heart with its comforting flavors! Enjoy this flavorful side dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Easy Spanish Rice

Easy Spanish Rice is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Its vibrant flavors and rich texture make it an ideal companion for various proteins, salads, or even as a stand-alone dish.

With Grilled Chicken

Pairing this rice with grilled chicken creates a balanced meal. The spices in the rice complement the smoky flavor of the chicken beautifully.

As a Taco Filling

Use Easy Spanish Rice as a filling for tacos. Add your favorite toppings, such as cheese, salsa, and avocado, for a delightful twist.

Alongside Black Beans

Serving this rice with black beans adds protein and fiber. This combination makes for a hearty vegetarian option that’s still satisfying.

Mixed into Fajitas

Stir Easy Spanish Rice into your fajita mixture. It enhances the flavor and provides extra texture to this classic dish.

With a Fresh Salad

Pairing this rice with a fresh salad offers a light yet filling meal. Choose citrusy dressings to brighten up the flavors.

As a Base for Burrito Bowls

Use Easy Spanish Rice as the base for burrito bowls. Top with grilled vegetables, avocado, and your choice of protein for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Easy Spanish Rice

To achieve the best results with your Easy Spanish Rice, follow these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

Use rinsed rice: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky.
Toast the rice: Toasting the rice in oil before adding liquids brings out its nutty flavor and adds depth.
Adjust liquid levels: Depending on your desired consistency, you may need to adjust broth or tomato sauce amounts slightly.
Let it rest: Allowing the cooked rice to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking helps it firm up and improves texture.
Taste before serving: Always taste your rice before serving; adjust seasonings if necessary to ensure maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Spanish Rice

When planning your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with Easy Spanish Rice. They enhance the overall dining experience.

Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection complements the flavors of the rice wonderfully.
Avocado Salad: A fresh avocado salad adds creaminess and brightness that balances the warm spices in the rice.
Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas serve as a fantastic side; they can be filled with beans or veggies for extra taste.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob pairs nicely with seasoned rice; brush with butter or lime for added zest.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add another layer of texture while providing additional protein.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This flavorful corn dish topped with mayo and cheese offers an exciting contrast to your meal.
Cilantro Lime Slaw: A crunchy cilantro lime slaw adds freshness and acidity, making it an excellent counterpoint to rich dishes.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking alongside your main courses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Easy Spanish Rice. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:

Using uncooked rice: Make sure to rinse your rice before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps achieve a fluffy texture.
Skipping the sauté step: Don’t skip sautéing the vegetables before adding the rice. This enhances the flavor and aroma of the dish.
Not measuring liquids accurately: Use the correct ratio of liquid to rice. Too much or too little can result in mushy or undercooked rice.
Ignoring simmer time: Allow the rice to simmer for the full time specified in the recipe. This ensures it cooks evenly and absorbs all flavors.
Not adjusting seasonings: Always taste your dish before serving. You may want to add more salt or spices based on your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container. This helps keep your Easy Spanish Rice fresh.
It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Easy Spanish Rice

Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It stays good for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Spanish Rice

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rice in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet with a little broth or water, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Spanish Rice?

Easy Spanish Rice is a flavorful side dish made with seasoned rice, onions, peppers, and spices, cooked all in one skillet.

Can I customize my Easy Spanish Rice?

Yes! You can add beans, corn, or different vegetables based on your taste preferences.

How do I know when my Easy Spanish Rice is done?

The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If it’s still hard, let it simmer a bit longer.

What can I serve with Easy Spanish Rice?

This dish pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or as part of a burrito bowl.

Final Thoughts

Easy Spanish Rice is not only simple but also versatile enough for various meals. Customize it by adding your favorite ingredients for an even more delightful experience. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is to make!

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