Imitation Rice-A-Roni
A quick and flavorful imitation of Rice-A-Roni, featuring toasted spaghetti and seasoned rice, perfect for a comforting, low-fat side dish suitable for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a pan, sauté the broken spaghetti in one tablespoon of margarine until golden brown.
- Add the rice, water, and bouillon cubes to the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low.
- Cook for 20 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Fluff the rice mixture with a fork.
- Stir in the remaining margarine before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic when browning the spaghetti. For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable bouillon for the beef or chicken bouillon. You can also swap the margarine with olive oil or butter for a richer taste. If you prefer whole grains, use brown rice, but increase the cooking time to 40-45 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This imitation Rice-A-Roni makes a great side dish for grilled meats or casseroles like Mom'S Stroganoff. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped herbs such as parsley or chives.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice mixture and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Imitation Rice-A-Roni contains roughly 2160 calories, with 14g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 199g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the thin spaghetti with other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as needed, ensuring the pasta is al dente before mixing it with the rice.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the spaghetti. You could also serve the finished dish with a hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicier flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish more filling?
Absolutely! You can boost the protein content by stirring in cooked chicken, beef, or beans after the rice is fully cooked. This will make it a heartier meal, perfect for serving as a main dish rather than just a side.
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).