Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant and zesty Salsa Rice! This one-pot wonder combines fluffy long-grain white rice with the bold flavors of your favorite salsa, aromatic garlic, and a hint of smoky cumin, all simmered to perfection in savory broth. Finished with a pop of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, this easy side dish is bursting with Tex-Mex vibes and can be served alongside grilled chicken, tacos, or as a base for hearty burrito bowls. With just 10 minutes of prep time and the option to customize with toppings like creamy avocado, tangy sour cream, or melty cheese, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Whether you prefer mild or fiery salsa, this recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor!
Heat olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the uncooked rice, and toast it in the oil for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains are slightly golden.
Sprinkle ground cumin and salt over the toasted rice, then stir to combine.
Pour in the broth and salsa, stirring well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
Simmer the rice for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the grains.
Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
Serve hot as a side dish or base for proteins, garnishing with optional toppings like diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Calories |
608 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.6 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.6 g | 18% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4492 mg | 195% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 85.7 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.9 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.8 g | ||
| Protein | 13.9 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 140 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 5.9 mg | 33% | |
| Potassium | 1244 mg | 26% | |
*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.