Spanish Rice With Tuna

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Spanish

Spanish Rice With Tuna is a flavorful, hearty dish featuring tender rice, savory tuna, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal for the whole family.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • parsley, chopped
  • 1 (8 oz.) can tuna
  • 2 cups uncooked rice
  • 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 1 quart boiling water, salted

Instructions

  1. In a heavy deep pot, sauté diced onion, diced celery, and chopped parsley in a small amount of oil until soft.
  2. Add canned tuna, uncooked rice, and 8 ounces of water to the pot.
  3. Cook uncovered for 30 minutes, adding boiling water as necessary to keep moist.
  4. When cooked, spread the rice mixture in a shallow dish and top with Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of saffron or a dash of smoked paprika to the sautéed vegetables. If you prefer a different protein, canned salmon or shredded chicken can be used as substitutes for tuna. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a unique twist. Adjust the salt based on the tuna and broth used to ensure balanced seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spanish Rice with Tuna hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a side of Citrus Marinated Shrimp to complement the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spanish Rice With Tuna contains roughly 703 calories, with 40g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (206% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), and potassium (97% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1415mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).

703 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 39.7g 79% DV
Total Fat 6.2g 8% DV
Carbs 135.1g 49% DV
Fiber 24.5g 88% DV
Sugar 9.5g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1415.1mg 62% DV
Potassium 4544.1mg 97% DV
Cholesterol 9mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 59.9mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 101.1mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 164.2mg 13% DV
Iron 37.1mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Fish

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 in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time. You'll need to increase the boiling water and simmer time to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the tuna and replace it with additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas or lentils for protein and texture while maintaining a hearty flavor.

What can I serve with Spanish Rice with Tuna?

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with bread or a side of Dick'S Delicacy to add a delightful crunch to your dinner.

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).

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