Spanish Rice And Beans

Name: Spanish Rice And Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp oil (or veggie broth); 1 medium onion (diced); 1 medium red bell pepper (chopped); 3-4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 1/2 cups white rice (uncooked); 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 1/4 cups salsa; 1 can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

Published: February 23, 2026

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with this simple one-pot meal that minimizes dishes.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with various proteins or can stand alone.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients delivers a delicious flavor profile that excites the palate.
Healthy Option: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, it’s a wholesome choice packed with fiber and protein.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking a breeze. Here’s what you need to gather before starting on your Spanish Rice And Beans.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet or pot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet or pot: Ideal for cooking everything in one vessel, ensuring even heat distribution.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise ingredient quantities, ensuring perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Base

1 tbsp oil (use veggie broth if you avoid oil)
1 medium onion (diced)
1 medium red bell pepper (chopped)
3-4 garlic cloves (minced)

For Seasoning

1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Salt & black pepper (to taste)

For the Main Dish

1 1/2 cups white rice (uncooked)
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth (or more, depending on rice variety)
1 1/4 cups salsa
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup green olives (halved, optional)

For Garnishing

Fresh herbs (to garnish, e.g., cilantro or parsley)

How to Make Spanish Rice And Beans

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Add the rice to a bowl with cold or lukewarm water. Let it soak for at least 10 minutes (30 minutes recommended). Once soaked, discard the water. Meanwhile, chop the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
* Add diced onion and chopped bell pepper.
* Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
* Stir in minced garlic along with all spices; sauté for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the drained rice to the skillet along with salsa and vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil. Note that you may need more vegetable broth if using rice that requires longer cooking times.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the skillet or pot with a lid.
* Lower the heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
* Avoid uncovering or stirring during this time as it affects cooking.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked, turn off the heat and remove the lid. Taste your dish and adjust seasonings like salt, black pepper, cumin, or red pepper flakes as needed.
* Stir in kidney beans and olives if using.
* Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy your delicious Spanish Rice And Beans!

How to Serve Spanish Rice And Beans

Spanish rice and beans are versatile and make for a hearty meal. They can be enjoyed in various ways to suit your taste or occasion.

As a Main Dish

Serve the Spanish rice and beans on their own for a satisfying vegetarian or vegan main course. Top with fresh cilantro or parsley for added flavor.

With Avocado Slices

Add creamy avocado slices on top or on the side. The richness of avocado complements the spices beautifully.

In Tacos

Use the rice and beans as a filling for corn or flour tortillas. Top with salsa, diced tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a delightful taco experience.

With a Side Salad

Pair with a light salad, such as mixed greens or a cucumber salad, to balance the hearty flavors of the dish.

As a Burrito Bowl

Create a burrito bowl by layering the rice and beans with your favorite toppings like guacamole, lettuce, and pico de gallo.

With Cornbread

Serve alongside cornbread for a comforting Southern twist. The sweetness of cornbread pairs well with the savory rice and beans.

How to Perfect Spanish Rice And Beans

Perfecting Spanish rice and beans involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking techniques.

Soak the Rice: Soaking your rice helps it cook evenly and results in perfectly fluffy grains.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and spices enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Monitor Cooking Time: Different types of rice have varying cooking times; adjust broth accordingly for best results.
Don’t Lift the Lid: While cooking, avoid lifting the lid to maintain steam, which is crucial for properly cooking the rice.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings after cooking; this allows you to achieve your desired flavor intensity.
Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking enhances flavors as they meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Spanish Rice And Beans

Spanish rice and beans can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor.

Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that adds richness and balances the spices in the rice and beans.
Corn Salsa: A refreshing mix of corn, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that brightens up your plate.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms pair well when grilled lightly.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa make an excellent appetizer before your meal.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunchiness and freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm dish.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory notes of Spanish rice and beans.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or other grains provide additional texture and nutrition.
Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar complements the hearty dish perfectly while adding hydration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spanish rice and beans, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

Skipping the soaking step – Soaking the rice helps achieve a better texture. Don’t skip this step; aim for at least 10 minutes, or longer if you can.
Not measuring ingredients accurately – Incorrect measurements can change the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Stirring during cooking – Stirring while the dish simmers can disrupt the cooking process. Keep the lid on and resist the urge to stir!
Using low-quality salsa – The salsa impacts overall taste significantly. Choose a high-quality or homemade salsa for the best results.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Tasting is key! Adjust seasonings after cooking to suit your personal preferences for salt and spice.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Spanish Rice And Beans

Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Spanish Rice And Beans

Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spanish rice and beans that might help you with your cooking.

Can I make Spanish Rice And Beans ahead of time?

Yes! It can be made ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator or freezer, and then reheated when you’re ready to enjoy it.

What ingredients can I customize in Spanish Rice And Beans?

You can customize by adding vegetables like zucchini or corn, or swapping kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans.

How spicy is Spanish Rice And Beans?

The spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you use. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make Spanish Rice And Beans without oil?

Absolutely! You can substitute oil with vegetable broth or water when sautéing vegetables for a lower-fat option.

Final Thoughts

Spanish rice and beans is not only delicious but also versatile. This dish can easily adapt to different tastes and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with various vegetables and spices to make it your own. It’s a comforting choice for any dinner table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card