salsa and rice recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best salsa and rice recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you all, it’s one of my family’s favorites and we make it at least once a week. I’ve been making this salsa and rice recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my kids and husband.

It’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients, but the flavors are amazing and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a big family gathering, this recipe is always a good idea.

I love that it’s also pretty healthy, with fresh veggies and brown rice, so I can feel good about serving it to my family. And the best part is that it’s super versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite spices or ingredients.

I like to add some diced jalapenos for an extra kick, while my husband prefers it without any heat at all. My kids love helping me make it, too – they love mashing up the tomatoes and getting their hands dirty in the kitchen.

We always have fun making this recipe together as a family.

Mexican Salsa and Rice

4.6 from 954 votes

A flavorful Mexican salsa and rice recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for pairing with your favorite Mexican dishes. This dish is a crowd-pleaser with its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salsa

2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tbsp lime juice
1/2 tsp salt

For the Rice

2 cups long grain white rice
4 cups water
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
3Drain well and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
5Add the rice and stir to coat the grains evenly.
6Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice turns light golden brown and becomes fragrant.
7This process, known as toasting the rice, adds depth of flavor to the dish.
8Add the water, salt, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to the saucepan.
9Stir well to combine.
10Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
11Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes.
12Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it can release steam and affect the cooking process.
13While the rice is cooking, prepare the salsa.
14In a small mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, finely chopped jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
15Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
16After 20-25 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
17This allows the rice to steam and absorb any remaining liquid.
18After resting, fluff the rice with a fork and gently mix in the prepared salsa.
19Serve the salsa and rice hot, garnished with additional chopped cilantro if desired.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Small mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 65g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier salsa, leave some of the jalapeño seeds intact. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the salsa for extra flavor and nutrition. To make the dish vegetarian, omit the meat and serve the salsa and rice with beans or tofu.

Watch Video Of How Mexican Salsa and Rice Works

This salsa and rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or a big family gathering. It’s easy to make, delicious, and packed with fresh veggies and whole grains.

My family loves helping me make it together, too – they get to mash up the tomatoes and get their hands dirty in the kitchen. We’ve even started making extra batches just so we can freeze some for later – it’s perfect for meal prep or when we’re short on time.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Salsa and Rice

What is the origin of this salsa and rice recipe?

This recipe has its roots in Latin American cuisine, where rice and beans are staples in many countries. The combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices is a classic flavor profile that is found in many different cultures around the world.

Can I use frozen tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Just thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels before using in the recipe.

How do I store leftover salsa and rice?

You can store leftover salsa and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat until warmed through.

Can I make this recipe in large quantities?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe if you need to feed a larger crowd. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size of your batch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since we’re using brown rice and no gluten-containing ingredients.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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