Tomatoes 'N Rice
A quick, flavorful rice dish with tomatoes, onions, and peppers, perfect for a comforting meal with a hint of spice and savory richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice until tender and set aside.
- Saute chopped small onion and diced small bell pepper in margarine until softened.
- Add hot pepper sauce and garlic salt to the sauteed vegetables.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with juice and cook for a few minutes.
- Fold in the cooked rice and stir until well combined. If mixture is not juicy enough, add a little water.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider using vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the rice. You can also substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier option. If you like a bit more texture, add some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Adjust the hot pepper sauce based on your spice preference, and feel free to mix in some cooked beans for added protein.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with Sweet 'N Sour Carrots (Salad) for a balanced meal. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. For a complete dinner, consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water or broth for moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes 'N Rice contains roughly 742 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg per serving (33% 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 be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so adjust your timing accordingly. Additionally, you may need to increase the liquid used in the recipe to ensure the dish remains moist.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by replacing the margarine with a plant-based oil, such as olive or coconut oil. Additionally, ensure that the hot pepper sauce and any other condiments used do not contain animal-derived ingredients. It's a versatile dish that can fit well into vegan recipes.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding cooked protein such as beans, lentils, or diced chicken. You can also mix in some sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or corn for added nutrition and texture. Nuts or seeds can be sprinkled on top for a crunchy element.
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).