Quick Eats: 7 Step Spanish Rice with Salsa : A Budget Friendly Comfort Food
Make this Quick eats 7-step Spanish rice with salsa in under 30 minutes! A flavorful comfort food, and satisfying vegetarian side dish.
Servings: 6
Cost: Budget friendly
Ingredients
- 2 cups white long grain rice Rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth low-sodium preferred
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- 4 tvsp tomato paste
- 3 tbsp lime juice or juice of 2 limes + zest
- 1 tbsp dried onion flakes
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 10 Oz. can Rotel diced tomatoes drained
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste optional
Instructions
- In a high sided pan or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add rinsed rice and toast until slightly golden.
- Stir in tomato paste and lime juice to coat the rice.
- Add vegetable broth, onion flakes, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and optional salt and pepper. Stir well. Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally.
- When the rice starts to absorb most of the liquid, stir in the drained Rotel tomatoes. Cover again and continue simmering.
- Once the rice is fully tender and the liquid absorbed, remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover with lid, and let sit 2–3 minutes to melt. Serve warm.
Notes
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or water for best texture.
Optional Add Ons
- Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, sour cream or vegan yogurt.
- Serve with beans, chips, or salad to turn it into a full meal.
