Spanish Rice(Arroz Con Tomate)
A vibrant Spanish rice dish featuring fresh tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and tender vegetables, perfect for a flavorful side or main course that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook green bell pepper, onion, garlic, basil, and rosemary in hot olive oil until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in rice, chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, and 2 cups of water.
- Cook, covered, over low heat for about 20 minutes, or until rice is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth instead of water. You can substitute the long grain rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option, but remember to adjust cooking times. Fresh herbs can also enhance the dish; use them if you have them on hand. If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or with warm tortillas to soak up the flavors. For a more substantial dish, consider adding black beans or cooked corn. A dollop of sour cream or avocado can also elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice to prevent drying out, and heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it, covered, for a quick option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Rice(Arroz Con Tomate) contains roughly 268 calories, with 8g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 589mg per serving (26% 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 ahead of time. Cook it as directed and let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat as needed for a quick side dish or main course.
What can I use instead of olive oil?
If you don't have olive oil, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even coconut oil as alternatives. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for sautéing the vegetables in this recipe.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans to boost the protein content. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, black beans or chickpeas work wonderfully and complement the flavors of the rice.
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).