Flavorful and Easy Spanish Rice Recipes

By Edu Valor / Author - Spanish Chef

There are really easy Spanish rice recipes! One thing I’ve learned over the years, a good and filling meal doesn’t need to be complicated. Plus, the grain is low maintenance and keeps almost forever.

Rice is one of the easiest dishes to prepare, and Spain happens to be one of the largest rice producers in Europe, together with Italy. So, it’s no surprise they know how to make the most of it!

When you need something filling, flavorful, and within your budget, rice recipes are the way to go.

I’ve cooked quite a few meals over the years, and while pasta is another option, it doesn't grow on plants like rice.

If you’re after something natural and nutritious, legumes like lentils, kidney beans, and garbanzos are great choices too. Plus, they’ll keep your doctor away.

Rice has always been an ideal staple in the kitchen. Back when I was growing up, the only thing cheaper than the grain was potatoes.

The Spanish have been making these meals for centuries—ever since the Moors introduced rice farming in the 8th century. The Moors got it from Asia, so we’re talking about a culinary tradition built on generations after generations.

Today, rice is a staple that feeds billions across the globe.

It’s no wonder Spain takes rice as a serious business. One of the most well-known easy Spanish rice recipes, paella, hails from the country and has earned worldwide fame.

If you’ve never had a proper paella, you’re missing out on one of life’s simple joys. 

Valencia, where rice cultivation began ages ago.

When I was a kid, I probably had the simplest Spanish rice dish ever—yellow rice with chunks of boneless chicken. That’s it. And you know what? It was delicious!

There’s something about the grain that is comforting. Easy Spanish rice recipes prove that a meal doesn’t have to be complicated to be good.

Rice is quick, filling, and pairs well with just about anything. No wonder countries like China eat it daily—you never hear anyone complaining about rice being boring! (And if they do, well, they’re cooking it wrong.)

Probably the most popular grain in the world knowing how many people it feeds. For the adventurers among us, it makes an excellent energy source.

Back in my day, we had a “rice day” at least once a week. We looked forward to it every time. It was one of those dependable meals that just made everything feel cozy and satisfying.

Pork belly rice.

Don’t get me wrong—paella is great, but the sheer variety of other rice dishes is huge. There are tons of simple, delicious dishes that don’t require any paella pan or special burners. A regular pot or frying pan works just fine.

Ever tried arroz a la cubana? It’s rice with tomato sauce, a fried egg, and bananas. A popular dish on the Canary Islands.

Sounds a little odd, but trust me, it’s very good. Or how about arroz con pollo? This classic Spanish chicken and rice dish is even easier and full of flavor.

So, next time you’re wondering what to cook, just remember: a lot of rice meals are your best friend. They are budget-friendly, and always satisfying.

A nice bonus—it keeps well for the next day, and many of these easy Spanish rice recipes taste even better over time. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Edu's Tasty Rice Recipes

Arroz con Costillas (pork ribs rice)

Arroz con Tocino (pork belly rice)