When it comes to flavorful and filling meals, Spanish rice is a staple dish that never goes out of style. This classic recipe has been a favorite for generations, and with its versatility, there’s no wonder why. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a main course packed with protein and veggies, Spanish rice is the perfect canvas to get creative with. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Spanish rice recipes that are easy to master, from classic one-pot dishes to innovative twists with chorizo, black beans, bell peppers, and more.
So, what makes a great Spanish rice recipe? Is it the type of rice used? The cooking method? The added ingredients? Whatever your approach, we’re excited to share these 20 flavorful Spanish rice recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
One-Pot Spanish Rice with Chorizo
A flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that combines the savory goodness of chorizo sausage with the comforting warmth of Spanish rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 medium bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chorizo sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add rice to the pot and stir to combine with vegetables. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Stir in smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Spanish Rice with Black Beans
This flavorful side dish combines the comfort of Spanish rice with the nutritional boost of black beans, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Latin-inspired dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious recipe in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add the water and black beans to the skillet, bringing to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Tomato Garlic Spanish Rice
This flavorful Spanish rice recipe is a perfect side dish for any meal. With the combination of juicy tomatoes, savory garlic, and aromatic spices, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the water, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Simple Saffron Spanish Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or seafood. This simple recipe combines saffron’s subtle earthy notes with the richness of Spanish rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked saffron and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
4. Add the rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spanish Rice with Bell Peppers and Peas
This classic Spanish rice dish is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, and for good reason – the combination of sautéed bell peppers, sweet peas, and savory rice is a match made in heaven. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the rice, water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
6. Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in the frozen peas during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Spanish Rice with Jalapeños
This flavorful recipe adds a kick to traditional Spanish rice by incorporating spicy jalapeños and savory spices. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Mexican dishes or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeño; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with oil and mix with vegetables.
5. Add the water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spanish Rice Casserole with Ground Beef
This classic casserole combines the flavors of Spanish rice with ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese for a satisfying and easy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in rice, water, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetarian Spanish Rice with Chickpeas
This flavorful vegetarian dish combines the richness of chickpeas with the savory taste of Spanish rice, perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add to the skillet. Stir until well combined with the tomato-chickpea mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice with Olives and Capers
This recipe combines the classic Spanish rice with the salty flavors of olives and capers, creating a delicious and savory side dish that pairs well with grilled meats or seafood.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water, olives, capers, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Herb Spanish Rice
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and herbs with the classic comfort of Spanish rice. Perfect as a side dish or as a base for your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Rice with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your Spanish rice game with the deep, smoky flavor of smoked paprika! This recipe adds a new dimension to this classic dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a side.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Spanish Rice and Chicken Skillet
This one-pot wonder combines juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and spices for a satisfying and easy meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the rice to the pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the water, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spanish Rice with Roasted Red Peppers
This flavorful side dish combines the savory goodness of Spanish rice with the sweet and smoky taste of roasted red peppers, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 roasted red peppers, peeled and sliced (see note)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
4. Add water, diced tomatoes, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in roasted red peppers and serve hot.
Note: Roast red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred. Let cool, then peel off skin and slice into strips.
Creamy Spanish Rice with Coconut Milk
Elevate your rice game with this creamy and flavorful Spanish-inspired recipe that combines the richness of coconut milk with sautéed onions, garlic, and spices. This dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a side to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions and garlic.
5. Add the water, coconut milk, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Rice Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this recipe that combines savory Spanish rice with bell peppers and melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Spanish rice
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook the Spanish rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked rice mixture, followed by a layer of the meat mixture.
7. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice with Shrimp and Peas
This flavorful dish combines savory rice with succulent shrimp, sweet peas, and aromatic spices. Perfect as a main course or side dish, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the rice and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
5. In a separate pan, cook the shrimp over medium-high heat until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Stir in the peas and paprika. Cook until the peas are tender, about 1 minute.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork. Combine the cooked shrimp and pea mixture with the rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Spanish Rice with Corn and Lime
This vibrant and flavorful rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. With its burst of citrusy freshness and subtle sweetness, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the water, corn kernels, lime juice, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spanish Rice with Ground Turkey
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional Spanish rice, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground turkey with aromatic spices and a hint of smokiness. Perfect as a side dish or used as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in turkey mixture. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice Soup with Tomatoes
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of Spanish rice with the freshness of tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup cooked Spanish rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the vegetable broth, Spanish rice, diced tomatoes, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Spanish Rice Salad with Avocado
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the warmth of Spanish rice with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Spanish rice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked Spanish rice, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Gently toss the mixture until everything is well combined.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including cooking time for Spanish rice)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 flavorful Spanish rice recipes! From classic dishes like One-Pot Spanish Rice with Chorizo and Simple Saffron Spanish Rice, to innovative twists like Spicy Spanish Rice with Jalapeños and Creamy Spanish Rice with Coconut Milk, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy skillet dinner, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. With a range of ingredients and flavor profiles to choose from, you’ll never get bored with the same old Spanish rice again!
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