Low Fat Arroz Blanco
Elevate your side dish game with this irresistibly light and fluffy Low Fat Arroz Blanco, a guilt-free twist on the classic Latin staple. This recipe combines the simplicity of long-grain white rice with aromatic bay leaf and a touch of olive oil for flavor, while minimizing added fat to keep it lean. The careful rice rinsing technique ensures perfect fluffiness, while fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and herbaceous freshness to every bite. Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect as a versatile side to complement grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or seafood. Whether you're watching your calories or seeking a healthier alternative to traditional arroz blanco, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition without sacrificing satisfaction.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 piece bay leaf
- 0.5 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro
Instructions
Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice remain fluffy.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and the salt.
Add the bay leaf to the saucepan to infuse the rice with subtle flavor during cooking.
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for about 12 minutes.
After 12 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered. Let the rice sit and steam in its own heat for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove the lid, discard the bay leaf, and gently fluff the rice with a fork.
Drizzle the olive oil over the rice and gently toss to coat, enhancing the flavor without adding much fat.
Transfer the arroz blanco to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately as a side dish with your favorite main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
326 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 7.6 g | 10% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1199 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 56.9 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.1 g | ||
| Protein | 5.5 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 54 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.7 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 94 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
