Spanish Rice Pronto
A quick and flavorful Spanish rice dish featuring tomato sauce, green peppers, and onions, perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt bacon drippings in a saucepan or skillet.
- Add chopped onion, green peppers, and Minute rice.
- Cook and stir over high heat until all are lightly browned.
- Add hot water, Hunt's tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Mix well and bring quickly to a boil.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh green peppers and onions. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute bacon drippings with olive oil or vegetable oil. You can also experiment with different types of rice, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the dish's depth, making it pair beautifully with Southern Pork Chops.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spanish Rice Pronto as a flavorful side dish or as a main course topped with grilled chicken or shrimp. It pairs wonderfully with tangy dishes or can be enjoyed with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Baked Sauerkraut Wirth to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Spanish Rice Pronto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to keep it moist and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Rice Pronto contains roughly 9 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Spanish Rice Pronto ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just follow the recipe until the simmering step, then let it cool before storing. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently and adjust seasoning if necessary.
What can I add to this recipe for more protein?
To boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans like black beans or chickpeas. These additions will not only enhance the dish's nutritional value but also add interesting textures and flavors.
Can I use different types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, while Minute rice is convenient, you can use other types of rice such as jasmine or basmati. Just keep in mind that the cooking time will differ, so adjust the water and simmering time based on the rice type you choose.
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).