Quick Spanish Rice

Transform your weeknight dinners with this Quick Spanish Rice recipe, a flavorful and vibrant side dish that's ready in just 25 minutes! Made with tender long-grain white rice, savory tomato sauce, and aromatic spices like cumin and paprika, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for pairing with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats. The sautéed onions and garlic create a rich base, while the optional cilantro garnish adds a fresh, zesty finish. Whether you use chicken broth or opt for a vegetarian version with vegetable broth, this easy Spanish rice recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Ideal for busy weeknights or spicing up your next Tex-Mex feast, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a household favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir well to coat it in the oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice begins to lightly toast.

Step 5

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Step 6

Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 8

Simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.

Step 9

Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid still on.

Step 10

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, if desired.

Step 11

Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite Tex-Mex meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1031.7 grams (1031.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	657

Total Fat 33.90g	43%
Saturated Fat 5.30g	27%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2037mg	89%
Total Carbohydrate 74.40g	27%
Dietary Fiber 4.80g	17%
Total Sugars 9.30g
Protein 11.50g	23%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 73mg	6%
Iron 4mg	21%
Potassium 400mg	9%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.0%

Protein: 7.1%

Carbs: 45.9%