Spanish Rice and Beans

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of Spanish rice and beans. The soft grains of rice, the tender beans, and the rich tomato flavor make every bite feel like a hug. This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a protein rich vegetarian dinner that’s simple yet satisfying. Whether you’re new to one pot food recipes or just want a quick, easy rice recipe that’s healthy, this dish brings bold Spanish flavors straight to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in one pot, less mess, less stress.
• Packed with plant-based protein from beans.
• Full of flavor but light enough for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Every ingredient in this Spanish rice and beans recipe authentic plays a special role in building that warm, rich flavor.

• Olive oil: Gives a smooth base and helps toast the rice for a nutty taste.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
• Garlic: Brings that signature Mediterranean aroma.
• Long-grain rice: Keeps its shape and gives a fluffy texture.
• Tomato sauce: Creates the saucy, slightly tangy base that holds everything together.
• Red kidney beans (or black beans): Add protein and a creamy bite, perfect for bean dishes vegetarian lovers.
• Vegetable broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor while keeping it moist.
• Smoked paprika & cumin: Give the dish its Spanish soul with a warm, smoky touch.
• Salt & pepper: Balance all the flavors.
• Fresh cilantro or parsley: For a fresh, herby finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat, then add onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.

2. Stir in the rice and toast it gently for 2 minutes until it turns slightly golden.

3. Add tomato sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt. Mix well to coat every grain of rice.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.

5. Add the beans, stir gently, and cook for another 5 minutes until everything blends beautifully. Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

Mistakes To Avoid

• Don’t rush the simmer; the rice needs time to absorb all that flavor.
• Avoid using short-grain rice, it can turn mushy.
• Don’t skip the toasting step, it adds that authentic Spanish texture and taste to your Spanish rice and beans.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish pairs perfectly with light veggie sides for dinner like roasted peppers or a fresh salad. For a full Spanish-inspired meal, try adding a side of Creamy Black-Eyed Peas Recipe or enjoy it next to Spiced Ground Beef and Black-Eyed Peas Stir Fry for a cozy family-style dinner.

You can also serve it as part of easy non meat dinners or vegan rice recipes dinners for guests who prefer plant-based meals.

Spanish Rice and Beans

A comforting one‑pot dish that’s easy to make, packed with plant‑based protein, and full of warm, Spanish‑inspired flavor great for a no‑fuss weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Latin American, Spanish

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• Large Pan

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 cup Long‑grain rice
• 1 cup Tomato sauce
• 2 cups Vegetable broth
• 1 cup Red kidney beans (or black beans) cooked or canned, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• to taste Salt
• to taste Black pepper
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

• Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until soft and fragrant — about 3–4 minutes.
• Stir in the long‑grain rice and toast gently for about 2 minutes, until the rice starts to turn slightly golden.
• Add the tomato sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt and pepper. Stir well to coat every grain of rice.
• Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan, reduce heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
• Gently stir in the cooked (or canned, rinsed) beans. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes, until the beans are heated through and the rice is tender.
• Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.

Keyword One‑Pot, Rice & Beans, Vegan, Vegetarian

FAQs

How do I keep the rice from getting sticky?

Use long-grain rice and toast it first. This keeps the grains separate and prevents clumping.

Can I use canned beans?

Yes, canned beans work great. Just rinse them well to remove extra sodium before adding them to your authentic rice and beans mix.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen, making it even better the next day.

Conclusion

When you serve this warm, comforting Spanish rice and beans, you’ll feel like you’ve cooked something truly special, without any fuss. It’s a dish full of heart and flavor, perfect for anyone who loves easy, nourishing meals. Save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your friends who adore wholesome, flavorful easy rice recipes healthy style dinners.