Low-fat Spanish Rice
Low-fat Spanish Rice Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from Spain
Introduction
Low-fat Spanish Rice is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without all the added calories. This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and savory flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free.
History
Spanish rice, also known as Mexican rice, is a popular dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, along with various spices and seasonings. This low-fat version of Spanish rice is a healthier take on the traditional recipe, making it a great option for those looking to watch their calorie intake.
Ingredients
- vegetable cooking spray
- 1 cup uncooked instant rice (preferably regular cooked rice)
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 0.67 cup diced green bell peppers
- 0.5 tsp prepared mustard
- 0.25 tsp pepper
- 0.13 tsp salt
- 1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) can whole tomatoes, undrained and chopped
- 1 (5.5 oz (156 g)) can tomato juice
How to prepare
- Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.
- Add rice, onion, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the skillet and simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- If using regular rice, cook the rice separately before adding it to the sautéed ingredients.
- Add the cooked rice to the sautéed ingredients.
- Continue cooking until all the ingredients are heated through.
Variations
- Add some cooked black beans or corn for extra protein and fiber.
- Top with some fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use a nonstick skillet to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan.
- Sautéing the rice, onions, and bell peppers before adding the liquid helps to enhance the flavors of the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this low-fat Spanish Rice as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the rice, onions, and bell peppers before adding the liquid helps to enhance the flavors of the dish and ensure that the rice cooks evenly.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option with more fiber.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with some chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing Recommendations
This low-fat Spanish Rice pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete and balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories per serving: 180
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fats
Total Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Proteins
Protein: 3g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 30%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 6%
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.
Summary
This low-fat Spanish Rice is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and fat. It is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy option for any meal.
Summary
Low-fat Spanish Rice is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without all the added calories. Packed with fresh vegetables and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a sunny afternoon in the small town of Seville, Spain, where I was visiting my dear friend Maria. Maria was a talented cook, and I always admired her ability to create delicious dishes with simple ingredients.
One day, as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on coffee, Maria pulled out a worn, stained recipe book from her cupboard. She flipped through the pages with a twinkle in her eye and finally landed on a page that read "Low-fat Spanish Rice." My curiosity was piqued, as I had never heard of such a dish before.
Maria explained that this recipe was a favorite in her family, passed down through generations. It was a healthier version of the traditional Spanish rice dish, using less oil and more vegetables. She shared with me the ingredients and the step-by-step instructions, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.
The next day, I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. I sautéed onions and garlic in a small amount of olive oil, then added in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and a pinch of paprika. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, reminding me of the bustling streets of Seville.
As the rice cooked and absorbed all the flavors, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The dish was colorful, fragrant, and most importantly, delicious. I packed some leftovers for Maria to try, and she was impressed with my rendition of her family recipe.
From that day on, Low-fat Spanish Rice became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and quiet evenings at home. It was a versatile dish that could be served as a main course or a side, and it never failed to impress.
Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding in more vegetables or experimenting with different spices. Each time I cooked it, I thought of Maria and the special bond we shared over our love for food.
As I grew older, I passed down the recipe to my children and grandchildren, hoping that they would continue the tradition of making Low-fat Spanish Rice. It brought me joy to see them gather around the table, savoring each spoonful and sharing stories of their own kitchen adventures.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, preparing another batch of Low-fat Spanish Rice, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and connections that this recipe has brought into my life. It may just be a simple dish, but to me, it embodies the love, friendship, and passion for cooking that have shaped me into the person I am today.
And as I take a taste of the finished dish, I can't help but smile, knowing that the legacy of this recipe will live on for generations to come.
Categories
| Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Healthy Side Dishes | Instant Rice Recipes | Low-fat Recipes | Onion Recipes | Spanish Recipes | Spanish Vegetarian | Tomato Recipes |