Rice Simmered with Tomato and Bell Pepper

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-27 · Updated 2026-06-27

A vibrant, flavorful Spanish rice cooked with fresh tomatoes and bell peppers, perfect as a side or base for many dishes. This Spanish-inspired rice and grain recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 40 minutes, pairs long grain white rice, olive oil, medium onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 250 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups (300g) long grain white rice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1, finely chopped medium onion
• 1, diced red bell pepper
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 cup (240ml) canned diced tomatoes
• 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley

The pan we’d use for this → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice under cold water until water runs clear and drain.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and 1 diced red bell pepper, sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the drained rice and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat grains in oil.
5. Step 5: Pour in 1 cup canned diced tomatoes and 3 cups chicken broth, then season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat.
6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.