Baked Vegetarian Spanish Rice Recipe Easy and Delicious

Spanish rice is a beloved side dish known for its vibrant color and rich, comforting flavors. Transforming this classic into a vegetarian, baked version adds a delightful twist that makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

This baked vegetarian Spanish rice recipe combines fluffy rice, hearty vegetables, and traditional spices, all baked together in one dish for an easy, flavorful meal. The oven does most of the work, allowing the rice to absorb every bit of the savory tomato base and spices, resulting in a dish that’s moist, well-seasoned, and packed with texture.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your menu, this recipe is sure to become a staple. It’s naturally gluten-free, packed with nutrients, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains or can stand alone as a satisfying meal.

Plus, it’s simple to customize with your favorite veggies or add-ins. Ready to bake your way to Spanish rice perfection?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked vegetarian Spanish rice recipe is a game-changer because it’s incredibly easy and fuss-free. Instead of stovetop stirring, you just combine everything in one baking dish and let the oven work its magic.

The rice cooks evenly, soaking up all the delicious tomato and spice flavors, without the risk of burning or sticking.

Another reason to love it: it’s versatile. You can tweak the veggies to what you have on hand or want to use up, making it perfect for meal prep or family dinners.

It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the most dedicated meat-eaters, yet wholesome and nutritious for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Lastly, this recipe offers a wonderful depth of flavor from simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, producing a comforting dish that feels both classic and fresh. If you enjoy dishes like this, you might also love our Half Runner Beans Recipe or the Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for wholesome, plant-based goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes, canned or fresh
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
• Juice of ½ lime (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Oven-safe baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches or similar)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil or a lid for covering the baking dish
• Fork or spoon for fluffing the rice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is hot and ready for even cooking.
2. Prepare the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, dice the red bell pepper, and mince the garlic. If using fresh tomatoes, dice them as well.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the rice, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, bell pepper, frozen peas, and minced garlic.
4. Add the vegetable broth, olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
5. Transfer the mixture to your oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
6. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. This traps the steam inside, allowing the rice to cook properly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Avoid opening the oven frequently to keep the steam trapped.
8. Carefully remove the dish from the oven and uncover. Check if the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If not, cover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in fresh cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lime juice, if using, to brighten the flavors.
10. Serve warm and enjoy! This dish pairs beautifully with beans, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This helps prevent a gummy texture in the baked rice.”

• Add more veggies: Try adding corn kernels, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but double-check your vegetable broth to ensure it’s free from animal products.
• Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.
• Use brown rice: For a healthier twist, substitute brown rice, but increase the baking time to about 50-60 minutes and add a bit more broth.
• Cheesy option: Sprinkle shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack) on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked vegetarian Spanish rice is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Serve it as a delicious side alongside dishes like black bean tacos, grilled portobello mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.

It also works wonderfully as a base for a hearty burrito bowl topped with avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream or vegan yogurt.

For a complete and balanced meal, add a fresh green salad or some sautéed greens on the side. If you want to explore more comforting recipes that pair well with this, check out our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe for some wonderful bread options.

Conclusion

Making baked vegetarian Spanish rice is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal fuss. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients and bold spices, baked to perfection for a comforting dish that’s perfect any night of the week.

With its ease of preparation, adaptability, and delicious taste, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this baked Spanish rice is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with many dishes and can be customized to your liking. Don’t forget to experiment with add-ins and toppings to make it your own.

Happy baking and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic with a vegetarian twist!

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