Spanish Rice and Beans
Introduction
Spanish Rice and Beans is the ultimate comfort food—fluffy, tomato-scented rice simmered with tender beans and aromatic spices. This crowd-pleasing dish packs bold flavors, satisfying textures, and plant-based protein, making it a favorite for vegetarians, meat-lovers, and weeknight cooks alike.
A hearty one-pot meal or a vibrant side for tacos or grilled meats, Spanish Rice and Beans brings irresistible color and depth to your dinner table without fuss.
Why Spanish Rice and Beans Is a Must-Make Recipe
Easy to throw together with pantry staples, Spanish Rice and Beans is both budget-friendly and nourishing. The interplay of cumin, paprika, and garlic with creamy beans and savory rice delivers depth of flavor that tastes far more complex than the simple prep would suggest. It’s also endlessly adaptable: use your favorite beans, add veggies, or spice it up to your liking.
Clever Tips for Perfect Rice and Beans
The secret to great rice and beans is letting the rice absorb aromatic tomato broth without going mushy. Always rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and get that perfectly tender, fluffy texture.
For a big flavor boost, sauté your onions, peppers, and garlic before adding rice—this extra step intensifies the base. A kitchen helper like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper can make prepping onions and peppers quick, efficient, and tear-free.
How to Serve Spanish Rice and Beans
This dish holds its own as a main, especially topped with avocado or a sprinkle of cheese. For meal prep, pack leftovers in a Bentgo Salad Container—it keeps everything fresh and travel-ready for work or school lunches.
For a lighter take, serve Spanish Rice and Beans as a side to grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or use it as a filling for burritos. Top with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, or your favorite salsa to add brightness and lift.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely before storing in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. This dish reheats beautifully in the microwave or stovetop for fuss-free lunches or fast dinners. Batch-cook and freeze in portions for busy weeks.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe yields about 6 generous servings. Each portion provides approximately 300 calories, 11 grams of plant protein, and a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, it’s truly a dish that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened (about 4 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat it in the oil and vegetables. Let it toast for a minute or two, then stir in the diced tomatoes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, then add cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Resist lifting the lid; you want to trap steam for fluffy rice.
- After 15 minutes, gently stir in the rinsed beans with a Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher to evenly distribute them without mashing. Recover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and rice is tender.
- Remove from heat. Let rest, covered, for 5 minutes; then fluff rice with a fork. Stir in cilantro if using.
- Serve with lime wedges and your favorite toppings. For a festive table, use a Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack, White to make cleanup a breeze.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Conclusion
Spanish Rice and Beans is the perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and craveable flavor. Whether you serve it as a main with toppings or as a hearty side, this vibrant dish is sure to win over any crowd. Easy to customize and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s destined to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
