Name: Delicious Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe) for Vibrant Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil (Can substitute with olive oil.); 1 cup Lundberg Farms Long Grain White Rice (Any long-grain white rice works.); 1 medium Poblano Pepper (Mild heat; can substitute with green bell pepper.); 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper (Adjust seeds for spice level.); 1 medium Chopped Onion (Shallots can be used as an alternative.); 2 cloves Garlic (Garlic powder can be used if needed.); 1 cup Cilantro (Parsley can be a substitute.); 1/4 cup Parsley; 2 cups Vegetable Broth (Chicken broth can be used for non-vegan.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 tablespoon Lime Juice; 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (For garnish.)

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With the sun shining down and the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen, I found myself craving something vibrant and satisfying. Enter my Flavor-Packed Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe)—a dazzling dish that brightens any mealtime table! This beautiful green rice is not only a visual delight but also a quick and healthy option for those busy days when you want something more than just fast food. Perfect as a side dish for your favorite Mexican meals or even as a stand-alone creation, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan. Plus, it’s an easy addition to your meal prep rotation, providing both nourishment and joy in every bite. Ready to take your cooking adventures to the next level with this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is Arroz Verde a Must-Try?

Vibrant Colors: This dish is a feast for the eyes, featuring a stunning green hue that instantly elevates your table setting.

Quick & Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for those craving homemade meals without the long wait.

Healthy Benefits: Packed with fresh herbs and vegetables, Arroz Verde is gluten-free, vegan, and a nutritious alternative to ordinary rice.

Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare a big batch at the start of the week, and enjoy it as a side or main dish alongside grilled meats or in hearty burrito bowls.

Endless Customization: Easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients—think black beans or corn for extra texture. You can even try it like in my One Pan Rice recipe for a complete meal!

A Crowd Favorite: Bring this dish to your next gathering, and watch it disappear—it’s a surefire hit with guests of all ages!

Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe) Ingredients

For the Rice

Avocado Oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking; you can substitute with olive oil if desired.
Lundberg Farms Long Grain White Rice – The flavorful base; any long-grain white rice works perfectly.

For the Vegetables

Poblano Pepper – Provides a mild heat; use a green bell pepper for a sweeter flavor if desired.
Jalapeño Pepper – Adds a delightful spice; remove seeds for a milder experience or switch to serrano peppers for extra heat.
Chopped Onion – Elevates the dish’s sweetness; shallots can be a nice, mild alternative.
Garlic – Infuses delicious aroma and flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.

For the Herbs

Cilantro – Contributes a fresh and herbaceous note; parsley works as a substitute for those who aren’t fond of cilantro.
Parsley – Adds brightness and a pop of color to the dish.

For the Broth

Vegetable Broth – Essential for moisture and flavor; chicken broth can be used for a non-vegan option.

For Seasoning

Salt and Pepper – Key for seasoning; feel free to adjust according to your taste.

For Serving

Lime Juice and Chopped Cilantro – These bright additions enhance the dish’s freshness and flavor.

With these carefully chosen ingredients, your Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe) will be a vibrant celebration of flavors that your family and friends will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare Rice
Begin by rinsing the Lundberg Farms long grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This crucial step removes excess starch and helps prevent stickiness. Once rinsed, let the rice drain in a fine-mesh strainer for about 10 minutes, allowing it to dry and prepare for toasting.

Step 2: Toast Rice
In a dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the drained rice and toast for approximately 10 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is fragrant and slightly golden. This toasting enhances the flavor of your Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe) significantly.

Step 3: Make Herb Mixture
While the rice toasts, prepare the herb mixture. In a blender, combine the chopped poblano and jalapeño peppers, onion, garlic, cilantro, parsley, and 1/4 of the vegetable broth. Blend until you achieve a smooth purée. The vibrant green mixture will serve as a flavor-packed base for your rice.

Step 4: Combine and Cook
Once the rice is toasted to a light golden color, pour the herb purée into the pot along with the remaining broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a rapid boil. As soon as it boils, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-17 minutes, avoiding the urge to lift the lid during cooking.

Step 5: Rest
After the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 15 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to absorb the remaining moisture fully, resulting in fluffy, tender grains, enhancing your Arroz Verde experience.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve
Finally, gently fluff the Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe) with a fork to separate the grains. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve with a drizzle of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added brightness and freshness. Enjoy this delightful dish alongside your favorite meals!

Make Ahead Options

These flavorful Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe) options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the herb mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, rinse and toast the rice a day in advance; just keep it in a sealed container at room temperature to prevent moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply combine the prepped herb purée with the toasted rice and broth, then cook according to the original instructions. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish ready in no time, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Arroz Verde (Green Rice Recipe) Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this recipe entirely your own!

Brown Rice: Swap in brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added health benefits. Just remember to adjust cooking time!
Add Beans: Incorporating black beans or corn will introduce a hearty texture and boost nutrition. They meld wonderfully into the dish.
Herb Twist: Introduce fresh herbs like mint or dill for an unexpected flavor profile. These refreshing additions will surprise and delight your palate.
Spicy Kick: Want more heat? Try adding more jalapeño or mix in diced serrano peppers for that fiery flair.
Cheesy Delight: For a comforting version, stir in some vegan cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast right before serving—so creamy and satisfying!
Flavorful Broth: Use homemade vegetable broth for a richer taste or even coconut milk for a tropical spin that pairs surprisingly well with the green notes.
Texture Additions: For more crunch, toss in some toasted nuts or seeds just before serving. Almonds or pumpkin seeds add a delightful contrast to the soft rice.
Complete Meal: Turn this dish into a full meal by serving it with grilled shrimp or chicken, much like in a delicious Chicken Rice Casserole for a filling option.

Your kitchen is your playground; let your creativity shine through as you customize this Arroz Verde to suit your taste or occasion!

What to Serve with Flavor-Packed Arroz Verde?

Spice up your dining experience by pairing this vibrant side dish with equally delightful accompaniments!

Crispy Tacos: The crunch of crispy tacos adds a satisfying contrast to the soft, fluffy rice, creating a delightful textural experience. Try them filled with your favorite protein for an unbeatable combo.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken brings a savory dimension that perfectly complements the fresh flavors of Arroz Verde. It’s a classic pairing that elevates any meal.
Black Bean Salad: A cool black bean salad loaded with fresh tomatoes and avocado brings refreshing contrast, brightening each bite of rice with a burst of flavor. Its creamy texture balances well with the rice.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions offer a sweet caramelized flavor and add extra nutrients, making your plate colorful and healthy.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is the perfect dip for scooping up your rice, adding richness that contrasts beautifully with the herby notes of Arroz Verde. It’s a fiesta on your plate!
Chilled Horchata: This traditional sweet rice drink, smooth and refreshing, pairs wonderfully with your meal, balancing the flavors and providing a cooling respite.
Margarita Sorbet: For dessert, a light margarita sorbet rounds off the meal serenely. The citrus flavors clean your palate and add a refreshing conclusion to your dining experience.
Tomato Salsa: Bright, zesty tomato salsa adds a fresh burst—its acidity enhances the earthiness of Arroz Verde, making your meal even more satisfying. Enjoy it with tortilla chips as a side!

Elevate your dining experience with these delicious pairings for a truly memorable meal!

Expert Tips for Arroz Verde

Rinse Well: Rinsing the rice is essential to remove excess starch; this prevents the Arroz Verde from becoming overly sticky.
Keep the Lid On: Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice cooks and rests; this helps maintain steam and ensures fluffy rice.
Adjust Liquid Carefully: Depending on your rice type, you may need to adjust the broth amount. The herb purée adds moisture, so consider that when measuring.
Spice Level: Customize the heat of your Arroz Verde by adjusting jalapeño and poblano quantities; remove seeds for a milder flavor.
Batch Prep: This rice stores well; make a larger batch and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days—great for meal prep!

Storage Tips for Arroz Verde

Room Temperature: Allow Arroz Verde to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours; avoid leaving it out longer to ensure food safety.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures your Arroz Verde stays fresh and flavorful for your next meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Arroz Verde in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to rehydrate. Enjoy it warm as a delicious addition to your meals!

Arroz Verde (Green Rice) Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ripe ingredients for Arroz Verde?
Absolutely! When selecting your vegetables, look for poblano and jalapeño peppers that have a vibrant color and are slightly firm to the touch. For the onions, choose ones that are smooth and shiny with no dark spots, as that indicates freshness. Fresh herbs should be bright green with no wilting or browning. This attention to ingredient selection will elevate your Arroz Verde in both flavor and visual appeal!

How should I store leftovers of Arroz Verde, and how long will it stay fresh?
Very well! After preparing Arroz Verde, allow it to cool completely for about 30 minutes. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This simple storage method helps maintain its delightful flavors and vibrancy. To enjoy it later, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to restore moisture.

Can I freeze Arroz Verde, and if so, how do I go about it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Arroz Verde, let it cool to room temperature. Portion it into freezable containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or broth to bring back its classic fluffy texture.

What if my Arroz Verde turns out sticky? How can I troubleshoot this issue?
If you find your Arroz Verde is sticky, it may be due to not rinsing the rice enough before cooking. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Additionally, ensure you don’t stir the rice while it cooks or rests, as this can release more starch and create stickiness. For future batches, consider using less broth if you notice excess moisture contributing to the stickiness.

Is this Arroz Verde recipe suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions, such as allergies?
Very much so! This Arroz Verde (Green Rice) recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with specific dietary restrictions. However, if you’re planning to serve it to guests with allergies, be sure to double-check the individual ingredients. For instance, some people may have an aversion to cilantro; you can easily substitute it with parsley or another herb they prefer. Always adjust flavors and seasonings to suit the needs of your diners!

Can I use different types of rice in this Arroz Verde recipe?
Definitely! While this recipe calls for long-grain white rice, you can also experiment with brown rice or jasmine rice for different flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary—brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, about 40-45 minutes, and you may need to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly. Always refer to your rice package instructions for the best results.