What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Spanish rice is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or a weeknight meal, it’s sure to become a favorite. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare with just a few everyday ingredients. The savory tomato base, tender rice, and hint of spices create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s perfect as a side or a main course, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Recipe
This Homemade Spanish Rice recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. With a blend of tomatoes, spices, and rice, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until it becomes lightly golden (about 5 minutes).
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the broth, tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes:
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Large skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Cuisine:
Mexican/Spanish
Serving:
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
This homemade Spanish rice recipe is both flavorful and nutritious, making it a perfect side dish or main course. Below is the nutrition information per serving.
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220 | 40g | 5g | 4g | 2g | 350mg |
What To Serve With It
When I make Spanish rice, I love pairing it with juicy grilled chicken for a filling meal. Another favorite of mine is a fresh black bean salad, which adds a nice zesty kick. Both sides complement the rice perfectly, making the dish feel complete.
Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken’s savory flavors pair beautifully with so many side dishes, but I’ve found that Spanish rice is one of my all-time favorites to serve alongside it. The smoky, charred notes of the chicken complement the rich, tomato-infused rice perfectly. I love how the spices in the rice, like cumin and paprika, enhance the chicken’s natural taste. Plus, the texture contrast—juicy chicken with fluffy, tender rice—makes every bite satisfying. Sometimes, I’ll add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra pop of flavor. It’s a combination that feels both comforting and exciting, every single time.
Black Bean Salad
Though I love experimenting with different sides, I’ve found that black bean salad is one of those dishes I keep coming back to because it’s just so versatile. It’s fresh, hearty, and pairs perfectly with Spanish rice, adding a pop of color and texture to the meal. I usually toss black beans with corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing. Sometimes, I’ll throw in avocado for creaminess or a hint of jalapeño for a kick. It’s a no-fuss dish that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser, especially on busy nights.
