Pronto Spanish Rice
Pronto Spanish Rice is a flavorful, quick-cooking side dish featuring tender rice simmered with green peppers and a savory tomato-onion flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the green pepper finely.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the margarine and cook the green pepper until tender.
- Stir in the tomato-onion soup mix blended with water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in uncooked rice and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also add diced tomatoes or corn for additional texture. If you want to make this dish spicier, include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a vegetarian version, ensure the soup mix is meat-free. This dish can also easily complement meals like Vegan recipes, enhancing its versatility.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish and is a perfect side dish for any Tex-Mex meal. You can also serve it as a base for a burrito bowl, topped with beans, avocado, and salsa. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside dishes like Bethlehem Fried Tomatoes for a delicious combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the rice moist, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pronto Spanish Rice contains roughly 578 calories, with 17g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 remember it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the water proportion and simmer for about 40-45 minutes instead of 20 minutes. This will add a nutty flavor and more fiber to the dish.
What can I add to the rice for extra protein?
You can stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or black beans after the rice has cooked. These additions will enhance the nutrition and make the dish more filling. If you're looking for plant-based options, consider adding edamame or chickpeas.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the tomato-onion soup mix you use is labeled gluten-free, as some mixes may contain gluten. You can also opt for homemade soup blends using dried tomatoes, onion powder, and spices to control the ingredients.
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).