Slow Cooker Zesty Spanish Rice
This Slow Cooker Zesty Spanish Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that brings a taste of traditional Spanish cuisine to your table. Combining zesty taco seasoning, fresh salsa, and aromatic lemon juice with fluffy Minute Rice, this dish is perfect for pairing with your favorite Mexican or Tex-Mex meals. Just set it and forget it in the crock pot to have a delicious, hands-free side ready in no time. Whether it's taco night, a family gathering, or a potluck, this Spanish rice will be a hit with everyone!
4
Servings
150
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Taco seasoning
1/4 cup (Homemade or store-bought)
Salsa
1/2 cup (Your preferred variety)
Water
2 cups (Filtered or tap)
Minute Rice
2 cups (Uncooked)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (Freshly squeezed or bottled)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the taco seasoning, salsa, lemon juice, and water. Stir until well mixed.
2
Pour the mixture into the crock pot.
3
Add the uncooked Minute Rice to the crock pot and gently stir to combine all ingredients.
4
Cover the crock pot with the lid, set the heat to low, and cook for 30 minutes.
5
After 30 minutes, check the rice for doneness. If needed, let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the rice is soft and fully cooked.
6
Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm as a side dish to your favorite Mexican meals.
Nutrition Information
0.75g
Fat
33g
Carbs
3g
Protein
1.25g
Fiber
0.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow Cooker Zesty Spanish Rice?
It is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish combining taco seasoning, salsa, lemon juice, and Minute Rice made in a crock pot.
How long does it take to cook this rice?
The rice cooks for approximately 30 minutes on the low setting, with an optional 5 to 10 minutes if more softness is desired.
What type of rice is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses uncooked Minute Rice for a fast and reliable texture.
Can I use regular white rice instead of Minute Rice?
Regular white rice requires significantly more liquid and a longer cooking time, so it is not recommended as a direct 1:1 substitute.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
Is Slow Cooker Zesty Spanish Rice gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your taco seasoning and salsa labels to be certain.
What kind of salsa should I use?
You can use any variety of salsa you prefer, ranging from mild to hot or chunky to smooth.
Can I substitute lime juice for lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice is a great alternative that complements Mexican and Spanish flavor profiles perfectly.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients as long as your slow cooker is large enough to hold the extra volume.
What heat setting should I use on my slow cooker?
You should set the slow cooker to the low heat setting for this recipe.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 150 calories per serving.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, you can stir in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or shrimp after the rice has finished cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Is this Spanish rice freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked rice in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level is determined by the specific taco seasoning and salsa you choose to use.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes, bring the water and seasonings to a boil, stir in the rice, remove from heat, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
What are some suggested pairings?
This rice pairs excellently with tacos, enchiladas, burritos, or grilled fajitas.
Can I add vegetables to the rice?
Yes, adding corn, peas, or diced bell peppers at the start of cooking is a great way to add nutrition.
Why is my rice mushy?
Rice can become mushy if it is overcooked or if too much liquid was added to the mixture.
What should I do if the rice is still hard after 30 minutes?
If the rice is still hard, let it cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until it absorbs the remaining liquid.
Can I use brown Minute Rice?
Yes, you can use brown Minute Rice, though it may require a slightly longer cooking time than white Minute Rice.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 3 grams of protein per serving.
How many carbohydrates are per serving?
Each serving contains 33 grams of carbohydrates.
Does this recipe contain fat?
It is very low in fat, with only 0.75 grams per serving.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Yes, homemade taco seasoning is a great way to control the sodium and flavor of the dish.
Do I need to rinse the Minute Rice before adding it?
No, Minute Rice does not need to be rinsed before cooking.
Can I add beans to this rice?
Yes, black beans or pinto beans are delicious additions that add fiber and protein.
Should I grease the crock pot first?
Greasing the pot is not required, but it can help prevent the rice from sticking to the edges.
Can I use chicken broth instead of water?
Yes, substituting chicken or vegetable broth for water will add extra depth and flavor to the rice.