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Quick Leftover Spanish Rice
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- #21908
Leftovers never tasted so good. Make a quick Spanish rice with cooked rice, onions, green peppers, and a zesty tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
4 reviews
ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced green bell pepper
3 cups cooked rice
1 cup tomato sauce, plus more if needed
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 dash cayenne pepper
directions
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion and bell pepper are soft.
Add the rice to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, or until the rice is fully mixed.
Add the tomato sauce, salt, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne. Bring to a simmer and cook until most of the sauce is absorbed.
Serve the Spanish rice hot.
recipe tips
Use day-old rice for best results, as it tends to have a drier texture ideal for this recipe as it will absorb the tomato sauce better.
Feel free to add some frozen peas or corn for extra nutrition in the dish.
For a smoky flavor, add a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Serve the Spanish rice with a side of black beans, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream.
Experiment with different toppings such as grated cheese, sliced jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime juice.
common recipe questions
What is Spanish rice?
Spanish rice is a flavorful dish made with rice, tomato sauce, and various seasonings popular in Spanish and Mexican cuisine.
Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is designed to use up leftover cooked rice, making it a quick and convenient meal option.
What can I substitute for green bell pepper?
You can substitute any color bell pepper or even use other vegetables such as zucchini or corn.
Can I use salsa instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, salsa can be used instead of tomato sauce for a slightly different flavor. Adjust the seasonings accordingly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to the dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
Can I add protein to this dish?
You can add cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, sausage, or beans to the Spanish rice for a more filling meal. Simply heat the protein through before serving.
How do I store leftover Spanish rice?
Leftover Spanish rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I freeze Spanish rice?
Yes, Spanish rice can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the Spanish rice ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.
tools needed
Large skillet: To cook the onions, garlic, green peppers, and mix all the ingredients together to create the Spanish rice. Make sure it has enough room to stir everything together without making a mess.
Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring the ingredients in the skillet without scratching the bottom of the pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring out the ingredients in the Spanish rice.
Knife: To dice the onion and green pepper, as well as mince the garlic.
Can Opener: In case you didn't buy a can of tomato sauce with a pull tab.
what goes with it?
Pulled Pork Tacos: The tangy and zesty flavors of the Spanish rice would be the perfect accompaniment to rich and savory pulled pork in a crispy taco shell.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Pairing the Spanish rice with grilled shrimp skewers would create a perfect balance of flavors. The juicy and slightly charred shrimp would add a delicious contrast to the zesty rice.
Spicy Black Bean Dip: The hearty and spicy flavors of a black bean dip would complement the zesty Spanish rice beautifully. It's a perfect combination of textures and tastes.
Cilantro Lime Slaw: The fresh and vibrant flavors of cilantro lime slaw would add a refreshing contrast to the zesty Spanish rice.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Sangiovese: Why? Sangiovese, with its bright acidity and red fruit flavors, can cut through the richness of the tomato sauce in the Spanish rice while enhancing the garlic and paprika notes. Look for one with a touch of earthiness for a well-rounded pairing.
Albarino: If you prefer white wine, a crisp Albarino might be your go-to here. Its citrusy notes and refreshing acidity can balance the zesty tomato sauce while complementing the garlic and bell pepper. Look for one with a hint of salinity.
Tempranillo: For those who like a bit more depth and body in their wine, a Tempranillo could be the perfect match. Its dark fruit flavors and hint of spice can stand up to the bold flavors of the Spanish rice while adding a layer of complexity to each bite.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Margarita: Nothing says fiesta like a classic margarita! The citrusy notes and touch of salt in a margarita can brighten up the flavors in the Spanish rice.
Sangria: Keep the Spanish theme going with a refreshing pitcher of sangria. The fruitiness and slight sweetness will complement the tomato sauce and peppers.
Amontillado Sherry: If you're feeling a bit adventurous, try sipping on some Amontillado Sherry. Its nutty, dry profile can enhance the nuttiness of the rice while balancing the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Horchata: Cool off your taste buds with a glass of horchata. The creamy, cinnamon-infused drink can soothe the heat from the cayenne pepper in the rice while adding a touch of sweetness to each bite.
Chai Tea: Get cozy with a warm mug of chai tea. The aromatic spices in the tea can complement the flavors in the Spanish rice.
Lemonade: When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! The tangy sweetness of lemonade can brighten up the flavors.
nutrition data
202 calories, 5 grams fat, 36 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams protein per serving.
Pizza night is always a favorite, especially when you have great tasting pizza from some of the most popular restaurants.
Not to be confused with evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk is very sweet (and very sticky) and used primarily in desserts.
reviews & comments
August 3, 2013
Definitely use less tomato sauce as 2 cups would have had my rice drowning for sure. If you use canned tomatoes in place of the sauce you can use 2 cups worth undrained and that would work but I wanted a smoother texture so I went with a little over a cup of sauce. It might depend on how cooked your rice is too I'm not sure. Mine absorbed more than a cup and maybe how saucy you like it. It's a good recipe otherwise just adjust the sauce amount as needed.
April 19, 2010
I found this recipe did a decent job in a pinch. I used El Pato instead of tomato sauce for an extra kick and only used one cup total of tomato sauce. I agree with other reviewers that to 2 cups is too much. Mine came out fairly good and I think next time it will be even better because I won't be shooting from the hip to make dinner for last minute company.
November 5, 2007
I wanted to find a recipe like my mom's spanish rice, and this turned out to be it!!! I didn't have tomato sauce, so I used a 14 1/2 oz. can of diced no-salt-added tomatoes. Good thing, it sounds like! I also used brown rice instead of white. It had wonderful flavor - I'm making it again tonight!
August 29, 2007
UGH! Too much tomato sauce and way too much salt. I had a bit of rice leftover, used it all and it still was too tomato-y and too salty. I think I'll try drained diced tomatoes next time.