Barbecue Recipes Mexican Cuisine Salsa Rice Spanish Rice Recipe

Delicious Spanish Rice Recipe with Salsa: Flavor Explosion on Your Plate

Written By Avi Green
Delicious Spanish Rice Recipe with Salsa: Flavor Explosion on Your Plate

If you are craving a fiesta of flavors on your dinner table, this Spanish rice recipe with salsa is just what you need. This dish, known for its rich and savory essence, will be a surefire hit at any gathering. The magical combination of fluffy rice infused with a zesty salsa brings together the heart of Mexican cuisine in a single bowl. Whether served as a side dish or the main course, the vibrant colors and aromatic spices are guaranteed to please your palate.

spanish rice recipe with salsa

Why You'll Love This Spanish Rice Recipe with Salsa

This authentic Spanish rice recipe offers much more than just a satisfying meal. It's an experience that brings the warmth and affection of Mexican culture right to your kitchen. The addition of salsa amps up the traditional Spanish rice, making it irresistible. Here is what makes this recipe stand out:

  • Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are already in your pantry or easily accessible in local grocery stores.
  • Quick and Easy: It takes less than 45 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
  • Versatile: This dish can be paired with grilled meats, fish, or even stuffed in burritos for a wholesome meal.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and so do adults!
  • Hearty and Nutritious: Provides essential nutrients without compromising on taste.
spanish rice recipe with salsa

Ingredients Needed for Spanish Rice Recipe with Salsa

Before we dive into the cooking process, let's list all the ingredients you'll need. Gather these items for a flawless execution of the best Spanish rice you've ever tasted.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup salsa (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lemon wedges (optional)
spanish rice recipe with salsa

Essential Cookware and Preparation Tools

To prepare this delectable dish, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Proper cookware can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

spanish rice recipe with salsa

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spanish Rice Recipe with Salsa

Now that we have all the ingredients and tools ready, let's get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to prepare the delicious Spanish rice with salsa.

Step 1: Saut the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Saut for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to saut for another 1-2 minutes. The combination of onion and garlic is the base of many Mexican dishes and it will add depth to the flavor of your rice.

Step 2: Add the Rice

Pour the long-grain white rice into the saucepan with the sauted onions and garlic. Stir well to ensure each grain of rice is coated with the oil. Continue to stir for about 2-3 minutes until the rice becomes lightly toasted. This step helps in achieving rice that is non-sticky and fluffy once cooked.

Step 3: Mix in the Spices

Now it's time to add the ground cumin and smoked paprika. These spices are the heart of this Spanish rice recipe with salsa. Cumin adds an earthy warmth, while smoked paprika lends a subtle smokiness that complements the salsa perfectly. Stir the spices well with the rice for about 1 minute.

Step 4: Pour in the Chicken Broth and Salsa

Carefully pour the chicken broth into the saucepan, followed by the salsa. Make sure to give it a good stir so that all ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 5: Simmer Until Perfectly Cooked

Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. Do not uncover the lid during this time, as it will release the steam needed to cook the rice. After 20-25 minutes, check the rice. If it's tender and the liquid has been absorbed, your Spanish rice is ready!

Step 6: Fluff and Garnish

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This will allow any remaining steam to finish cooking the rice. After 5 minutes, remove the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice, separating the grains gently. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Spanish Rice

Even the most straightforward recipes can have room for tiny adjustments that make a huge difference. Here are a few tips to ensure your Spanish rice with salsa turns out perfect every time:

  • Rinsing Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This will help in achieving fluffy rice.
  • Salsa Type: Use a salsa that you enjoy eating on its own. Different brands have distinct flavors, so choose one that resonates with your palate.
  • Broth Matters: The chicken broth adds an extra layer of flavor. For a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable broth instead.
  • Let it Rest: Allowing the rice to sit covered after cooking ensures that it is perfectly cooked through.
  • Customized Heat: If you prefer a spicier version, use a hot salsa or add a diced jalapeo to the onions.
  • Store Properly: Leftover Spanish rice stays good in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Serving Suggestions for Spanish Rice with Salsa

This Spanish rice recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

Conclusion

This Spanish rice recipe with salsa offers an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The combination of fresh salsa, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice makes it an all-time favorite for any meal. Best of all, it's an easy-to-make, one-pot dish that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. So next time youre in the mood for a culinary adventure, give this recipe a try and bring the rich, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table.

For an extra touch of authenticity, consider pairing your Spanish rice with classic dishes like enchiladas, tacos, or grilled chicken. Whether its a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual get-together, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

And dont forget to clean up with the right tools. Keep your cookware in tip-top shape by using the best cleaners available:

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If you love rice recipes, you might want to check out this Buttery Seasoned Rice Recipe for an added variation to your menu.

Enjoy your cooking experience and savor every bite of your homemade Spanish rice with salsa!


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(2 Pack) Ocean'S Halo, Organic Soy-Free Spicy Korean BBQ Sauce, 12 Ounce
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(Set of 3) Heavy Duty Vegetable Grill Baskets for Outdoor Grill, Stainless Steel Veggie Grilling Basket for All Grills, BBQ Gifts for Men, 1 Large & 2 Small
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, 24025BMT, Cast 2-Burner, Liquid Propane Gas Grill, Black
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, 60936, Grill Light Cob Handle Mount,Black
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, Deli Slices, Hickory Smoked, 5.5 Oz
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, One Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan Seasoning Mix, 1.5 Oz
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, Santa Maria Style Seasoning, 7 Oz.
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10-42 BBQ Brisket Rub - All-Natural Spice Seasoning for Steak, Rib, Beef Brisket - Barbecue Meat Seasoning Dry Rub - BBQ Rubs and Spices for Smoking and Grilling - No MSG, 0 Calorie - 10.5Oz Bottle
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"8FT High Pressure Propane Hose with Adjustable Regulator - Ideal for Outdoor Grill Gas Fitting, Grill, Burner, Fryer, and Cooker - 0-20 PSI - 3/8" Flare X 1/8" NPT Male"
$41.94
(180 Cu. In. (2 Pack)
$35.43
(2 Pack) Ocean'S Halo, Organic Soy-Free Spicy Korean BBQ Sauce, 12 Ounce
$48.00
(Hot&Spicy) CJ Korean BBQ Original Sauce Chicken & Pork Marinade 29.6 Ounce (1)
$27.98
(Set of 3) Heavy Duty Vegetable Grill Baskets for Outdoor Grill, Stainless Steel Veggie Grilling Basket for All Grills, BBQ Gifts for Men, 1 Large & 2 Small
$48.10
, 24025BMT, Cast 2-Burner, Liquid Propane Gas Grill, Black
$338.00
, 60936, Grill Light Cob Handle Mount,Black
$40.22
, Deli Slices, Hickory Smoked, 5.5 Oz
$10.28
, Inc. 1423 Broiler Brush, Black
$77.66
, One Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan Seasoning Mix, 1.5 Oz
$5.65
, Santa Maria Style Seasoning, 7 Oz.
$22.28
- 4 Piece Black Drillbrush Ultra Stiff Cleaning Brush Set - Metal Brush for Drill Alternative - Grill Brush for Cordless Drill - Grill Grate Cleaner Brush
$75.98
- BBQ Grill Cleaner Oil | 100% Plant-Based & Vegan | Best for Cleaning Barbeque Grills & Grates | Use with Wooden Scrapers, Brushes, Accessories & Tools | Great Gift for Dad! (8Oz)
$34.24
- Black Nitrile Gloves, Hypoallergenic Co-Polymer 6 Mill Thickness, Disposable Gloves, Powder Free, Non Sterile, Ambidextrous, Finger Tip Textured, Dispenser Pack of 100, Size. Medium.
$38.20
- Carolina Barbeque Sauce, Gourmet Carolina Sauce, Tangy BBQ Sauce with Tomato Vinegar, Premium Ingredients, Made with Gluten-Free Ingredients (20 Oz)
$24.76
- Double Pre-Seasoned, Square Carbon Steel BBQ Grill Griddle, Made in USA - Perfect for Gas Grill - Durable, Flat Top Grill Pan - 1/4" Thick, 14" X 18"
$215.98
- Double Pre-Seasoned, Square Carbon Steel BBQ Grill Griddle, Made in USA - Perfect for Gas Grill - Durable, Flat Top Grill Pan - 3/16" Thick, 14" X 18"
$245.57
- Greek Freak Mediterranean Spice Blend - All-Purpose Rubs, Spices and Seasonings - Use On: Chicken, Chickpeas, Beef, Seafood, Pork, Vegetables, Turkey, Potatoes and Salad Dressing - 4 Oz
$34.24
- Grill Brush and Scraper, 16.7”, Stainless Steel, Grill Cleaner, Grill Brush, Grill Cleaning Brush, BBQ Brill Brush, BBQ Brush for Grill Cleaning, Grill Brush for Outdoor Grill, Safe Grill Brush
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- Large under Grill Mat - Black Diamond Plate, 36 X 48 Inches, for Outdoor Use
$108.08
- Magnetic Barbecue BBQ Light Set for Grilling - 6 Alkaline AAA Batteries Included - Works on All Grills with an Exception to Stainless Steel.
$56.02
- Master Grill Pan, Korean Traditional BBQ Grill Pan - Stovetop Nonstick Indoor/Outdoor Smokeless BBQ Cast Aluminum Grill Pan
$105.58
- Meat Claws Bbq Grill Accessories Set - 2 Silicone Gloves, Claws for Pulled Pork, BBQ Thermometer - Perfect Smoker Accessories Grilling Tools Gift Set for (Orange Glove-Thermometer-Claw)
$40.18
- Monterey Seafood Seasoning and Hog Wild Cajun Seasoning, Gluten-Free Bbq Rubs and Spices for Smoking
$55.17
- Onyx Collection, 12-Inch Grill Pan, Coated with New Teflon Platinum Non-Stick Coating (PFOA Free) (12-Inch)
$87.98
- Professional Grade Chef Apron for Kitchen, BBQ & Grill
$67.98
- Stovetop Indoor Korean BBQ Nonstick Grill Pan With, Pfoa-Free, Dishwasher Oven Safe, Made in Korea
$77.98
-Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven, Rotating Propane Pizza Grill Oven for Exterior Backyard Pizza Maker with 14" Pizza Stone, Portable Pizza Ovens for outside with Pizza Peel,Pia,Cutter,Gloves and Thermometer.
$500.58
. the Safer Grill Cleaning Brush. All Natural. No Metal Bristles.
$59.98
07047 Cool Touch Electric Griddle
$73.98
07061 22-Inch Electric Griddle with Removable Handles, Black, 22-Inch
$119.98
1 Pair/2 Pieces BBQ Gloves, Grilling Gloves, Heat Resistant Barbecue Oven Gloves, 1472°F/800°C Kitchen Fireproof Mitts Heat Proof for Grilling, Baking, Cooking, Welding Gloves Mitts - Red
$16.42
1 Piece Random Nonstick Enameled Cast Iron Pan/Pot (4 Styles: 10.25" Skillet/2Qt Saucepan/2.8Qt/4.8Qt Dutch Oven) – Healthy round Pot for Sourdough Bread Baking on All Stovetops, Mystery Cookware Box
$69.99
1-Piece 16.50 Inch Cast Iron Griddle Plate | Reversible Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Pan for Gas Stovetop | Double Sided Used on Open Fire & in Oven | Pre-Coated with Oil
$58.44
1/2" X 1/8" Lavalock High Temp BBQ Gasket Smoker Seal for Nomex Door Lid, Self Stick Grey
$46.82
1/3Pc Non-Stick BBQ Grill Mat 40*33Cm Baking Mat Cooking Grilling Sheet Heat Resistance Easily Cleaned Kitchen for Party
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10 Inch Griddle Spatula Holder Magnetic Design, Stainless Steel Grill Barbecue Tool Rack, Griddle Accessories for Blackstone Flat Top Griddle and Other Grill Griddles (2 Pcs)
$42.57
10 Inch Square Cast Iron Grill Pan Skillet Grill Pan with Easy Grease Draining for Grilling Bacon, Steak, and Meats, Stove, Fire and Oven Safe for Camping or Barbecue (Red)
$63.98
10" Portable round Barbecue BBQ Charcoal Grill with Handle for Outdoor Home Kitchen BBQ Picnic Camping
$53.77
10" Square Cast Iron Grill Pan Steak Pan Pre Seasoned Grill Pan with Easy Grease Drain Spout, with Large Loop Handles for Grilling Bacon, Steak, and Meats
$67.98
10-42 BBQ Brisket Rub - All-Natural Spice Seasoning for Steak, Rib, Beef Brisket - Barbecue Meat Seasoning Dry Rub - BBQ Rubs and Spices for Smoking and Grilling - No MSG, 0 Calorie - 10.5Oz Bottle
$35.98
10-42 BBQ Brisket Rub | All-Natural Spice Seasoning for Steak, Rib, Beef Brisket | Barbecue Meat Seasoning Dry Rub | BBQ Rubs and Spices for Smoking and Grilling | No MSG, 5.5.Oz Bottle
$31.37
10-Inch Skewer for BBQ Kebab, Unbleached Long Bamboo/Wood Roasting Sticks for Grill -Heavy Duty Thickness -Flat Stick Flag Handle -With Dust-Free Packaging (100-Pack)
$22.97
10-LED Grill Light, as Labeled
$40.18
100 Pcs Grilling Gloves Kit Disposable BBQ Gloves with 2 Pairs Cotton Liners Grilling Gloves Cooking Gloves Latex Free Nitrile Gloves for Outdoor Grilling Barbecue Cooking
$18.40
100% All-Natural Hardwood Pellets - Maple Wood (20 Lb. Bag) Perfect for Pellet Smokers, Smoky Wood-Fired Flavor
$53.96
100% Compostable Food Prep Gloves, Restaurant-Quality,For Food Handling, Powder-Free, 100 Count, Medium, Earth Friendly Highest ASTM D6400, US BPI and Europe OK Compost Certified, San Francisco
$20.30
100% Cotton Kitchen Apron with an Adjustable Neck with Long Ties for Women Men Chef
$40.14
12 Inch round Pizza Stone, Heavy Duty Cordierite Pizza Grilling Stone, Bread Baking Stone for RV Oven, Grill and Toaster Oven, Ideal for Baking Crisp Crust Pizza, Bread, Cookies and More
$73.03
12 Inch Lightweight Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle with Cleaning Kit - Smooth Polished Surface, Easy to Clean Cast Iron Skillets Use in the Oven, on the Stove or Grill, over a Campfire
$59.98