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Arroz Verde Mexicano

Mexican Green Rice. For this recipe, I tested Morelos' rice from Mexico. Use regular long grain white rice if Morelos' is not available. From Better Homes and Gardens. Sometimes Spanish rice just doesn't cut it.

5.0 · 2 reviewsRecipe card by COOKGIRlEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
MexicanVegan< 30 MinsEasyInexpensive
Arroz Verde Mexicano

Total time

20 min

Servings

1

Calories

254.4

Category

Rice

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this easy, 20-minute Arroz Verde Mexicano. This vegan-friendly green rice dish uses fresh cilantro, poblano peppers, and spinach to create a stunning, herb-infused side dish that elevates any taco night or plant-based feast. Perfectly fluffy, nutritious, and naturally dairy-free.

Ingredients

Makes 1 serving

  • 1/2 fresh parsley leaves
  • 1/2 fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 water
  • 1/4 green chili pepper
  • 1 lime juice
  • 1 lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2 olive oil
  • 1 rice
  • 2 vegetable broth
  • chicken broth
  • salt

Method

  1. In a blender combine the parsley, cilantro, white onion, water, chili pepper, lime juice, and garlic.

  2. Process until almost smooth. If necessary, stop blender and scrape down sides.

  3. In a large saute pan heat the olive oil on medium heat. Saute the rice for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.

  4. Heat up the broth and add to the rice along with the cilantro/parsley mixture.

  5. Cover pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for approximately 20 minutes or unti rice is tender and liquid is absorded.

  6. Once cooking is complete, turn off heat, keep pan on heating element for 10-15 minutes to allow rice grains to firm up.

  7. Season with salt to taste.

Cook's notes

  • Use day-old cooked rice for the best texture; cold rice absorbs the green sauce more evenly without becoming mushy.
  • For a deeper flavor profile, toast your rice in a tablespoon of oil until golden before adding the liquid.
  • Adjust the heat by removing the seeds and veins from the poblano pepper if you prefer a milder taste.

Easy swaps

  • Replace poblano peppers with jalapeños if you want an extra spicy kick.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of water when blending the greens to add more depth.
  • Swap long-grain white rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb, grain-free alternative.

Frequently asked

What gives Arroz Verde its green color?

The vibrant green color comes from blending fresh cilantro, poblano peppers, and spinach into the cooking liquid or stirring it through at the end.

Is Arroz Verde spicy?

Traditionally, it has a mild, earthy heat from the poblano pepper. If you find poblanos too mild, you can add extra peppers or a pinch of cayenne to increase the heat level.

Can I make this recipe in under 30 minutes?

Yes! This recipe is designed to be ready in just 20 minutes, especially if you use pre-cooked or leftover rice.

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