Mexican restaurant rice

Side Dish

Item Rating: 69/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 210 calories, 4.0 grams of protein, 3.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)

Calories		333.3
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		4.8 g	6%
	Saturated Fat	0.8 g	4%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		0 mg	0%
Sodium		634.9 mg	27%
Total Carbohydrates		63.5 g	23%
	Dietary Fiber	3.2 g	11%
	Sugars	3.2 g
protein		6.3 g	12%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		31.7 mg	2%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		238.1 mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 43 cal (13.4%)

Protein: 25 cal (7.8%)

Carbs: 254 cal (78.8%)

About Mexican restaurant rice

Mexican restaurant rice, often known as Spanish rice, is a popular side dish in Mexican cuisine. It typically consists of white or brown rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices such as cumin and chili powder, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish. Originating from the influence of Spanish settlers in Mexico, this dish incorporates local ingredients and seasonings to create its distinct taste. Nutritionally, Mexican rice varies depending on preparation but is a good source of carbohydrates for energy, with small amounts of dietary fiber from vegetables and some vitamins like vitamin C and beta-carotene from tomatoes, if included.

Health Benefits

• Provides energy due to its carbohydrate content, essential for bodily functions.
• Contains lycopene from tomatoes, an antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
• Includes dietary fiber when vegetables like onions or peppers are added, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains garlic, onions (common in preparation)

Suitable for: Vegetarian, gluten-free (when pure, without added flour or sauces containing gluten)

Not suitable for: Low-carb diets, fodmap diets (due to garlic and onion)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly to at least 165°F to ensure food safety.

Common Questions About Mexican restaurant rice Nutrition

Is Mexican restaurant rice high in calories and protein?

Mexican restaurant rice typically contains about 200-250 calories and 4-6 grams of protein per one-cup serving, depending on the recipe. It is relatively low in protein and mainly consists of carbohydrates, making it an energy-dense side dish.

Can I eat Mexican restaurant rice on a keto or low-carb diet?

Mexican restaurant rice is generally not suitable for keto or low-carb diets because it is high in carbohydrates, with around 40-45 grams of carbs per one-cup serving. For a low-carb alternative, consider cauliflower rice prepared with similar seasonings.

Is Mexican restaurant rice vegan or vegetarian-friendly?

Mexican restaurant rice can be vegan or vegetarian-friendly as it is typically made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices. However, some recipes may use chicken broth or lard, so it's important to ask the restaurant about their preparation methods if you're adhering to a vegan or vegetarian diet.

What is a healthy portion size for Mexican restaurant rice?

A healthy portion size for Mexican restaurant rice is about half to one cup, depending on your calorie and carb needs. Pairing it with a lean protein source and vegetables can help balance the meal and provide more nutrients.

How does Mexican restaurant rice compare to white or brown rice nutritionally?

Mexican restaurant rice, often made with white rice and additional seasonings, has similar calorie and carb content to plain white rice but may include more sodium due to added salt and flavorings. If made with brown rice, it would have more fiber and nutrients, making it a slightly healthier option overall.

Data Sources & Scientific References