Vegan Spanish Rice with Mango Salsa and Cilantro Lime Dressing

by

Discover a vibrant and flavorful vegan dish that combines the rich flavors of Spanish rice with the sweet freshness of mango salsa and the zesty kick of cilantro lime dressing. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for dressing)
  • Juice of 1 lime (for dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing)
  • Salt to taste (for dressing)

Preparation

Start by cooking the rice. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to release the flavors.

Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spices. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Meanwhile, prepare the mango salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red bell pepper, and red onion. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently. Add 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

For the cilantro lime dressing, whisk together 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, spoon the flavorful Spanish rice onto plates. Top with a generous scoop of mango salsa and drizzle with the cilantro lime dressing. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired. This dish pairs well with a side of black beans or a fresh green salad for a complete vegan meal.

Enjoy Your Vegan Spanish Rice

This colorful and healthy dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the bold flavors of Spanish cuisine in a vegan-friendly way. The combination of spicy rice, sweet mango, and zesty dressing creates a harmonious balance that will delight your taste buds. Give it a try and add a splash of tropical sunshine to your mealtime!