Spanish Rice and Shrimp

This Spanish Rice and Shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of aromatic spices, tender shrimp, and fluffy rice, offering a simple yet flavorful dish that satisfies the whole family. The warm spices like chili powder, paprika, and cayenne add a subtle kick, while the shrimp brings a fresh and succulent touch to this comforting meal.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish can be prepared in just under 40 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lime for added brightness and color. It’s a meal that promises to deliver big flavor with minimal effort, making it a great addition to your regular rotation.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the rice and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the rice starts to toast.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. While the rice is cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
6. Once the rice is done, gently fold in the cooked shrimp.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lime wedges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

List 10 other ways to call the same exact dish with different words:

1. Spicy Shrimp Rice Bowl
2. Shrimp and Spanish Rice Skillet
3. Saffron Shrimp and Rice
4. Shrimp with Spanish-Spiced Rice
5. One-Pan Shrimp and Rice
6. Spanish-Style Shrimp with Rice
7. Zesty Shrimp Rice Dish
8. Shrimp Rice with Chili and Lime
9. Shrimp Pilaf with Spanish Spices
10. Flavor-Packed Shrimp and Rice

Spanish Rice and Shrimp – A Perfect Fusion of Flavors

Spanish Rice and Shrimp is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the earthy spices of Spanish cuisine with the fresh and savory taste of shrimp. Perfect for both a weeknight family meal and a casual dinner party, this dish packs bold flavors in a simple one-pan preparation.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Shrimp: High in protein and low in calories, shrimp is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including selenium, B12, and iodine. It’s also known for its heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• Rice: As a base, rice provides complex carbohydrates that offer long-lasting energy. Choosing brown rice can add additional fiber and essential nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins.
• Vegetables and Spices: Onion, garlic, and bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C and A, promoting overall immune health. The addition of cumin and chili powder gives this dish its warm, earthy flavor while also contributing potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, aiding in reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health.

Why This Dish Stands Out:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this one-pot meal simplifies cooking without compromising on taste.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap the shrimp for other proteins like chicken or tofu for a different twist.
• Crowd Pleaser: With its bright, bold flavors, Spanish Rice and Shrimp is a dish that will impress guests without requiring hours of prep.

Cooking Tips for Success:

• For the perfect fluffy rice, ensure you cook it over low heat and avoid stirring during the simmering phase.
• Fresh shrimp are ideal, but if you’re using frozen, thaw them in cold water before cooking to maintain the right texture.
• To add a smoky depth, try using smoked paprika along with cumin for an extra layer of flavor.

History and Origin of Spanish Rice and Shrimp

Spanish Rice, also known as “Arroz Rojo,” has its origins in Mexico, despite its name suggesting Spanish roots. It is a staple in Mexican cuisine, often served as a side dish or the base of more elaborate meals. The recipe for Spanish Rice typically includes tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a variety of spices, giving it a distinct red color and rich, savory flavor.

The influence of Spanish colonization on Mexican cuisine can be seen in the introduction of rice, which was brought to Mexico by the Spanish during the 16th century. Rice had been a staple in Spain for centuries, introduced to Europe during the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. As the Spanish settlers brought rice to the New World, it became a central part of Mexican cooking, blending with indigenous ingredients like tomatoes, chilies, and herbs to create new flavors.

Shrimp, on the other hand, is native to the coastal regions of the Americas and has been consumed by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. In modern Mexican and Spanish cuisine, shrimp is commonly paired with rice in a variety of dishes, especially in coastal regions where seafood is abundant.

The Fusion of Spanish Rice and Shrimp: The combination of Spanish Rice and Shrimp is a perfect example of the fusion of Old World and New World flavors. This dish is particularly popular in coastal regions of Mexico, where fresh seafood is readily available. The inclusion of shrimp adds a light and flavorful protein to the hearty rice, while the spices used in Spanish Rice elevate the overall taste of the dish.