Flavorful Red Rice with Salsa
Elevate your meal with this vibrant and zesty Flavorful Red Rice, inspired by a delightful recipe from Real Simple magazine. This dish takes classic long grain white rice and infuses it with the bold flavors of your favorite salsa, making it a quick and satisfying alternative to plain rice. Perfect as a base for tacos, enchiladas, or as a standalone side, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a delicious way to bring a hint of the Southwest to your dinner table. Cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes, this red rice will surely become a go-to in your kitchen for gatherings and family meals alike.
4
Servings
120
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Salsa
1/3-1/2 cup (your favorite)
Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Long grain white rice
1 cup (uncooked)
Water
1 3/4 cups (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the salsa, kosher salt, and water, and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
2
Once boiling, carefully add the uncooked long grain white rice and give it a gentle stir to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
3
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and allow the rice to simmer without lifting the lid for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
4
After the rice is done simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 7 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
5
Using a fork, gently fluff the rice, then serve warm as a delightful side dish or base for your favorite entrees.
Nutrition Information
0.25g
Fat
25.5g
Carbs
2.25g
Protein
125mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flavorful Red Rice with Salsa?
Flavorful Red Rice with Salsa is a vibrant and zesty side dish that infuses long grain white rice with the flavors of salsa, inspired by a recipe from Real Simple magazine.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
You will need 1 cup of uncooked long grain white rice, 1 3/4 cups of water, 1/3 to 1/2 cup of your favorite salsa, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
How long does it take to cook the rice?
The rice simmers for approximately 15 minutes, followed by a 7 to 10-minute resting period.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for long grain white rice for the best texture and absorption.
Can I use any type of salsa?
Yes, you can use your favorite variety of salsa to customize the heat and flavor profile.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
Is this Flavorful Red Rice vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this recipe is vegetarian.
What is the total carbohydrate content?
There are 25.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sodium is in this dish?
Each serving contains 125mg of sodium.
What is the fat content of the rice?
This dish is very low in fat, containing only 0.25g per serving.
Is there any protein in this recipe?
Yes, each serving provides 2.25g of protein.
Do I need to stir the rice while it is simmering?
No, you should cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and allow it to simmer without lifting the lid to ensure proper cooking.
Why is there a resting period after cooking?
The 7 to 10-minute resting period allows the rice to steam, which helps it become light and fluffy.
How should I fluff the rice?
Use a fork to gently fluff the rice after the resting period is complete.
What are some suggested pairings for this red rice?
It serves as an excellent base for tacos and enchiladas, or as a side dish for Mexican-inspired entrees.
How much water is required for 1 cup of rice?
You will need 1 3/4 cups of water.
Should I boil the water before adding the rice?
Yes, you should bring the water, salsa, and salt to a rolling boil before adding the rice.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and a quick side dish.
Does the recipe require any special preparation for the rice?
No, the rice should be used uncooked as specified in the ingredients list.
What is the cooking heat level for simmering?
The heat should be reduced to medium-low once the rice is added and the mixture has reached a boil.
Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt?
You can, but you may want to adjust the amount as table salt is finer than kosher salt.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients (rice, water, salt, salsa) are typically gluten-free, but always check your specific salsa label.
What is the origin of this recipe's inspiration?
This recipe was inspired by a dish found in Real Simple magazine.
Can I make this rice spicier?
Yes, you can increase the spice level by choosing a hot salsa or adding extra chili flakes.
How much salsa is used?
The recipe calls for 1/3 to 1/2 cup of salsa.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as Mexican cuisine and a quick side dish.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
The fiber content is not specified for this specific recipe.
Is there any cholesterol in this rice?
No, this recipe contains 0mg of cholesterol.
How long does the entire process take?
The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes including boiling, simmering, and resting.