Phyllis' Spanish Rice
A vibrant Spanish-inspired rice dish featuring tomatoes, olives, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the whole tomatoes and return them to their juice.
- Place all ingredients except rice into a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- Combine the cooked rice with the sauce in a large bowl.
- Top with a little sour cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of cumin in addition to the chili powder. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether. Leftover rice works well in this recipe, making it a great way to use up what you have on hand. This dish can also be easily adapted for vegetarian recipes by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spanish rice as a hearty main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs beautifully with Manana Dip or can be accompanied by a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it with Strawberry Margarita Fizzes for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice mixture to prevent it from drying out, and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Phyllis' Spanish Rice contains roughly 449 calories, with 11g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (112% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 31g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 in place of white rice. Just be aware that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Make sure to follow the package instructions for perfect results.
How spicy is this Spanish rice recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder used. For a milder dish, start with 1 tsp. and taste before adding more. You can also add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick if desired.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Spanish rice for up to 2 months. Ensure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in a skillet or microwave, adding a little water if needed.
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).