Delicious Spanish Rice Recipe

Name: Delicious Spanish Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Elevate your taco night with this flavorful and colorful Delicious Spanish Rice recipe. Infused with zesty tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a blend of spices, this rice dish complements any Mexican-inspired meal, making it a perfect side for taco soup or burritos. Easy to make in one pot, it's a family favorite that guarantees satisfaction with every bite.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-11-20T05:43:17.207Z

This Delicious Spanish Rice recipe will not only add color to your plate but also a burst of flavor that your guests will love. Perfectly seasoned and satisfying, it makes a great addition to any meal.

Perfect for Any Meal

This Delicious Spanish Rice is an ideal accompaniment for a variety of main dishes. Whether you are serving hearty tacos, zesty burritos, or robust taco soup, this rice adds a burst of flavor and a pleasing texture that elevates your meal. Its colorful presentation also makes it an attractive dish to serve at gatherings or family dinners, ensuring everyone will be asking for seconds.

The rice is flavorful enough to stand on its own, yet mild enough not to overpower the other elements on your plate. This versatility allows you to serve it alongside grilled vegetables, beans, or even as a bed for savory meats, making it a staple in your repertoire.

Easy One-Pot Wonder

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. By preparing everything in one pot, you'll save time and effort in both cooking and cleanup. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without too much fuss. You can even prep the ingredients ahead of time to make the cooking process even quicker.

The one-pot method ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, creating a harmonious and delightful dish. It’s the kind of recipe that lets you enjoy cooking again, allowing you to focus on creating wonderful family memories around the dinner table.

Healthier Side Dish Option

This Spanish Rice recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your diet. Rich in fiber and vitamins from the tomatoes and spices, it provides both flavor and health benefits. Utilizing vegetable broth instead of plain water also adds an additional depth of taste while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.

It's a perfect option for families looking to enjoy delicious meals while prioritizing nutrition. Serve it with salads or grilled lean proteins to create well-rounded meals that everyone will love. You can feel good about serving this rice to your loved ones!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking.

Ingredients for Spanish Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking for the best texture!

Cooking Steps

Follow these steps to make your Spanish rice.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until onions are translucent.

Add Rice and Spices

Add the rice to the pot, stirring well to coat with the oil. Then add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Pour in Liquid

Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with juice) to the pot. Stir everything together.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

This rice pairs wonderfully with any Mexican dish!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Spanish Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for meal prep or busy weekdays. When stored properly, the flavors continue to develop, making reheating just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the rice before microwaving or stirring in a pan over medium heat. This will help maintain moisture and prevent the rice from drying out, ensuring you enjoy its savory taste all over again.

Customizable Flavor Profiles

One of the wonderful aspects of this Spanish Rice recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, for extra nutrition and color. You can also experiment with different spices to set the tone for your meal—adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne can change the flavor profile significantly.

For a heartier dish, try mixing in black beans or corn during cooking. This not only enhances the nutritional content but also makes the rice more filling, turning it into a delightful main course option rather than just a side dish.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even more exciting, consider serving the Spanish Rice with fresh toppings like sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, or a side of creamy guacamole. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add layers of texture to your dish, making it more appealing.

Additionally, consider pairing this rice with homemade salsa or a zesty lime crema drizzled over the top. These vibrant toppings will bring freshness to every bite, elevating your dining experience and making this Spanish Rice a true star on your table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.