Gram'S Spanish Rice
A hearty Spanish-inspired rice dish featuring cheese, onions, peppers, and tomatoes, baked to perfection. Perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine raw rice, broken cheese, chopped onion, chopped pepper, butter, tomatoes, salt, and pepper in a baking dish.
- Pour in scalding water and stir to combine.
- Bake for 1 hour, stirring 2 or 3 times during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use long-grain rice for a fluffy texture. If you prefer a creamier dish, try substituting some of the raw rice with quinoa or even couscous. You can also mix in other vegetables like corn or peas for added flavor and nutrition. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spanish rice as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or can be enjoyed as a satisfying main course topped with avocado or a dollop of sour cream. For a complete meal, consider serving with Pampusky(Slovak Donuts) for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and cover the dish before microwaving to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gram'S Spanish Rice contains roughly 321 calories, with 8g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1143mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to adjust the water amount and baking time accordingly, typically increasing it by about 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness before serving.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
A mild cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack works well, but feel free to experiment with other types like pepper jack for a kick or a sharp cheese for added flavor. Just ensure it melts well to blend into the dish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. You can enhance the flavors by adding more vegetables or using vegetable broth instead of water for cooking. It’s a great way to enjoy wholesome, vegetarian recipes that are filling and delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).