Salsa Rice

This Salsa Rice takes a basic staple and makes it ten times better. You'll love the mix of spicy salsa and perfectly cooked rice with a touch of creaminess.

Rice is a pretty basic staple and used in a lot of different cuisines. But sometimes we get stuck in a rut with just plain rice served with our meals. This Salsa Rice, though, will put a fun spin on a common ingredient, adding some zing with the salsa and creaminess from the butter. It's easy to make and only requires four ingredients, so it's super simple.

This Salsa Rice recipe is vegan and uses plant-based butter and veggie broth. It's also a healthy way to spice up rice, rather than including other less-healthy add-ins. You're going to love the flavors and textures of this delicious dish that is quick and easy to make. Let's take a look at what goes into it.

Video Tutorial

Main Ingredients

• Rice. You can use any rice you prefer. Make sure you double check the water to rice ratio for the specific rice you want to use. I am using Basmati rice, so the suggested broth quantity is for this specific rice.
• Salsa. Use your favorite salsa brand here, and you can use mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference. Your Salsa Rice can be as spicy or as mild as you like.
• Veggie Broth. If you don't have any on hand, you can also use water.
• Butter. I used plant-based butter, but regular butter works as well. 🙂

How to Make Salsa Rice

1. In a large pot, add the basmati rice, followed by the salsa and veggie broth. Give it a stir to make sure everything is submerged and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Turn off the heat and add the butter. Cover the pot again with a tight lid and let it rest for 10 minutes.

3. Stir again, making sure that everything is well combined. Then serve the Salsa Rice with a lime slice for garnish.

Tips for Making the Best Salsa Rice

• Submerge the rice. Make sure you stir the rice and salsa so that they are under the broth. If the rice is not submerged, then it will not cook properly. You could land up with some well cooked rice and some that's still hard and dry.
• Use vegetable broth. If you don't have veggie broth, then I would substitute water. Try to avoid using a meat-based broth, like chicken or beef, because they will change the flavor profile of the dish. Vegetable broth, or even water, is a better fit with the other ingredients.
• Cook the rice according to the type. While I used basmati, you may be using a different type of rice, which would require a different amount of water and longer or shorter cook times. Just make sure to follow the directions on your package of rice and taste it to make sure it is cooked just right for the best Salsa Rice.

How to Store this Rice

Salsa Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you are ready to reheat it, you can use the microwave or place it in the pot again to reheat on the stove. Add just a little bit of broth to the rice though to keep it moist (the refrigerator can have a drying effect on rice).

What to Serve with Salsa Rice

You can serve this Salsa Rice with your favorite proteins, like tofu, eggs, or chicken. It pairs perfectly with this Mexican Street Corn. Or if you are serving salad, this would be a delicious side dish. If you like breakfast burritos, this rice would be a great addition to the other ingredients. You can even eat it on its own, with maybe a squeeze of fresh lime or some chopped cilantro.

This delicious Salsa Rice is super easy to make and really levels up a basic rice side. You can have it for a snack or add it to any main dish. The spicy flavor can really enhance other grains, proteins, or vegetables that you are serving. I hope you and your family enjoy this quick and yummy side dish as much as we do.

You'll also love these tasty rice recipes:

• Cilantro Lime Rice and Black Beans
• Rice and Beans
• Sofritas
• Baked Rice and Beans
• Easy Rice and Okra
• Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice)