Hey y'all! Are you craving a vibrant, comforting side dish that brings a splash of Spanish flavor to your table? Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper is a zesty, hearty classic that’s unbelievably easy to make and pairs perfectly with all your favorite mains. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just want something delicious without fuss, this rice delivers big taste in every fluffy forkful. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper
- Quick and easy—ready in just 35 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with flavor thanks to sweet tomatoes, crisp green peppers, and aromatic garlic.
- Versatile—serve it with tacos, grilled chicken, or as a meal on its own.
- Family-friendly and budget-friendly using simple pantry ingredients.
- Vegan and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper: Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the pan. Stir well to coat the grains in oil and toast for 2-3 minutes until the rice turns slightly golden and smells nutty.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Remove from heat and let the Spanish rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm!
Notes & Tips for Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper
- For extra flavor, try using homemade chicken or vegetable stock.
- Rinsing your rice before cooking removes excess starch and yields fluffier results.
- If your rice is still a bit firm at the end, add a splash more broth, cover, and cook for 3-5 minutes.
Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper: Variations
- Spicy Spanish Rice: Add 1 diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions.
- Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked black beans or shredded rotisserie chicken before simmering.
- Cheesy Spanish Rice: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese after cooking for a creamy twist.
Equipment Needed for Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper
- Large skillet or saucepan with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
How to Store Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper
Let the rice cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper makes the perfect side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or roasted veggies. For a festive meal, pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or as a hearty base for burrito bowls. Top with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or sprinkle with extra herbs for extra flair!
Pro Tips for the Best Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper
- Don’t skip toasting the rice—it enhances the nutty flavor and prevents mushiness (learn more here).
- Keep the lid on tight while simmering; peeking lets out steam and can affect the texture.
- Let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the grains to firm up and absorb any remaining liquid.
FAQ: Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper
- Can I use brown rice instead of white?
- Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes and add about ½ cup more broth.
- What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
- You can substitute with regular paprika or a mix of paprika and a tiny pinch of chili powder for depth.
- Is Spanish Rice with Tomato and Green Pepper freezer friendly?
- Absolutely! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a splash of broth for the best texture.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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1Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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2Add the diced green bell pepper and minced garlic. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
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3Stir in the rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
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4Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
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5Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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6Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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