Are you looking for a flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal? Look no further than Spanish rice! This classic Latin American staple is a crowd-pleaser, and with so many variations to try, you’ll never get bored. From spicy dishes featuring chorizo and jalapeños to vegetarian options packed with chickpeas and spinach, there’s a Spanish rice recipe out there for every occasion.
In this article, we’re excited to share 18 delicious and diverse Spanish rice recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer more subtle notes, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to cook up a storm with these mouth-watering Spanish rice dishes!
Classic Spanish Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers
This recipe brings together the flavors of Spain with a simple and delicious rice dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and cook an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Spanish Rice with Chorizo and Beans
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chorizo, onions, garlic, and spices with creamy beans and fluffy rice, all cooked in one pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chorizo, and spices; cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add rice, water, tomatoes, and beans; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Spanish Rice with Chickpeas and Spinach
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the richness of chickpeas, spinach, and saffron-infused rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the rice, chickpeas, spinach, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and serve hot with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Spanish Rice with Jalapeños and Cilantro
Add a kick to your usual rice dish with this spicy twist, featuring the bold flavors of jalapeños and cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped jalapeño pepper and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Add the uncooked rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Add the water and smoked paprika to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spanish Rice with Saffron and Garlic
Elevate your paella game with this flavorful rice dish infused with the luxurious taste of saffron and the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with garlic.
4. Add the water and saffron mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Spanish Rice with Corn and Black Beans
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any meal! This recipe combines the simplicity of Spanish rice with the sweetness of corn and the protein-rich goodness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, water, black beans, corn kernels, cumin, and salt. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Rice Casserole with Ground Beef
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the comfort of ground beef with the warmth of Spanish rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice with Shrimp and Peas
This classic Spanish rice dish gets a delicious boost from succulent shrimp and sweet peas, making it a perfect one-pot meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add the peas, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
6. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the other ingredients.
7. Add the water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spanish Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory goodness of Spanish rice with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Spanish rice (with tomatoes and spices)
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook Spanish rice according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked Spanish rice mixture, followed by the meat mixture.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanish Rice with Chicken and Olives
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Spain with the comfort of a hearty rice dish, featuring tender chicken, savory olives, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the sliced olives.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spanish Rice with Smoked Paprika and Onions
This classic Spanish rice dish gets a smoky twist from the addition of smoked paprika and caramelized onions. Perfect as a side dish or used to fill tacos, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Add the smoked paprika to the saucepan and stir to combine.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the onion mixture.
4. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice with Roasted Red Peppers
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful and colorful dish, perfect as a side or added to tacos and burritos!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 roasted red pepper, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the red pepper for 30-40 minutes or until charred. Let cool, then peel and chop.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rice, diced tomatoes, roasted red pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
5. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro leaves (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanish Rice with Chorizo and Manchego Cheese
Elevate your rice dish with the bold flavors of Spain! This recipe combines savory chorizo sausage, creamy Manchego cheese, and aromatic spices for a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound Spanish chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add the water to the pan and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
8. Stir in the cooked chorizo and grated Manchego cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice with Artichokes and Lemon Zest
Brighten up your meal with the flavors of Spain! This hearty rice dish combines tender artichoke hearts, savory spices, and a burst of citrusy lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Freshly squeezed lemon zest (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water, artichoke hearts, smoked paprika, saffron mixture, and salt. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork, then stir in the freshly squeezed lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Rice with Mushrooms and Thyme
This flavorful side dish combines the aromas of Spain with the earthiness of mushrooms, all tied together with a hint of thyme. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a base for your favorite tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, rice, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spanish Rice with Pineapple and Ham
This flavorful side dish combines the classic Spanish rice with the sweetness of pineapple and savory ham, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its bold flavors and vibrant colors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 6 slices cooked ham, diced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice, water, pineapple, ham, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Rice with Lentils and Carrots
This flavorful dish combines the comfort of Spanish rice with the nutritional boost of lentils and sweet carrots, perfect for a weeknight meal or packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and lentils; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice with Scallops and Saffron Aioli
This recipe combines the warmth of Spanish rice with the sweetness of scallops, all tied together by the subtle earthiness of saffron aioli. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Saffron Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using water, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Mix cooked rice with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve rice topped with scallops and drizzle with Saffron Aioli (see below).
Saffron Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 flavorful Spanish rice recipes! From classic tomato and pepper variations to one-pot wonders with chorizo and beans, there’s something for every occasion. Try vegetarian options with chickpeas and spinach or add a kick with jalapeños and cilantro. Saffron and garlic, corn and black beans, or ground beef – the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, meat, or veggies, these recipes will transport your taste buds to Spain without leaving home. ¡Buen provecho!
