Authentic Spanish Rice Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy

Spanish rice, also known as arroz rojo, is a beloved staple in Spanish and Latin American cuisine. This vibrant, flavorful dish is a perfect side or a hearty main when loaded with fresh vegetables.

The beauty of authentic Spanish rice lies in its simplicity—each grain is infused with the rich essence of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices, creating a comforting and aromatic experience. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking to impress guests with a colorful dish, this vegetable-packed Spanish rice recipe delivers both taste and nutrition.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step to create a deliciously fluffy, well-seasoned rice that pairs beautifully with just about any meal. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable for various dietary preferences.

So, grab your skillet and some fresh veggies, and let’s dive into crafting this classic comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This authentic Spanish rice recipe stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rice is cooked to fluffy perfection, absorbing a savory tomato base enriched with garlic and smoked paprika, while a medley of colorful vegetables adds freshness and nutrients.

It’s a versatile dish that complements a wide range of meals—from grilled meats to vegan dishes. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and uses simple pantry staples, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

If you enjoy recipes that are both wholesome and bursting with flavor, this Spanish rice will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped for heat

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
4. Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir well to coat the grains with the oil and spices. Allow the rice to toast lightly for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer the rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
7. Add peas: After 18 minutes, gently fold in the frozen peas. Cover again and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the rice is tender.
8. Fluff and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes with the lid on. Then fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of saffron or a splash of white wine to the broth before simmering.”

Here are some helpful tips to perfect your Spanish rice:

• Rinsing rice: Don’t skip rinsing the rice; it helps achieve that fluffy texture.
• Broth choice: Use a good quality vegetable broth for richer taste. Homemade broth works best.
• Vegetable variations: Swap out peas and carrots for corn, zucchini, or mushrooms to suit your preference.
• Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Vegan option: This recipe is naturally vegan, but double-check broth ingredients if store-bought.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This authentic Spanish rice with vegetables pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a flavorful side alongside grilled vegetables or roasted meats.

It also complements Vegan Chipotle Bowl Recipe for a Flavorful Healthy Meal perfectly for a wholesome plant-based dinner.

For a full Spanish-themed meal, consider pairing this rice with sautéed garlic shrimp or crispy fried plantains. It’s also a fantastic base for stuffing peppers or as a filling for vegetarian burritos.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.

Conclusion

This authentic Spanish rice recipe with vegetables is a delicious and nutritious addition to your recipe collection. It’s easy to make, uses fresh ingredients, and delivers a comforting, satisfying taste that everyone will love.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion.

By mastering this recipe, you open the door to countless variations and meal ideas. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy wholesome vegetables and whole grains in one vibrant dish.

For more inspiration on delicious plant-based meals, check out our collections like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or dive into wholesome grains with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking and buen provecho!

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