Side Dishes

Arroz Mamposteao, Puerto Rican Fried Rice

Arroz Mamposteao (Puerto Rican Fried Rice)

Arroz mamposteao is a traditional Puerto Rican fried rice made with aromatics like onions, peppers, and garlic and tossed with stewed beans and sweet plantains. It’s bursting with Caribbean flavors and is the perfect dish to make with leftover rice. This dish is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine. Pair it with your favorite side dishes like tostones and avocado for a delicious lunch or dinner the whole family will enjoy!

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Puerto Rican Macaroni Salad, ensalada de coditos

Ensalada de Coditos (Puerto Rican Macaroni Salad)

Ensalada de coditos or Puerto Rican macaroni salad is the perfect side dish to serve at parties and family gatherings. It is made with a tangy dressing of mayonnaise, mustard, olive juice, and vinegar. What makes this dish different from traditional American macaroni salad is that it’s not sweet. It’s easy to make and tastes even better on day two. I enjoy the convenience of preparing this macaroni salad a day ahead of a special event which relieves the pressure of cooking too many dishes on the day of!

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Cuban-style black beans, easy recipe

Puerto Rican Black Beans (Habichuelas Negras)

Puerto Rican-style black beans are the perfect companion to a bowl of white rice! Here is an easy recipe for making this traditional dish in a fraction of the time. I use canned beans to make the process much quicker and infuse the broth with sofrito, fresh herbs and spices for the most delicious beans you’ll ever taste!

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Arroz con gandules

Arroz con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice and Pigeon Peas)

Arroz con gandules along with pernil is the national dish of Puerto Rico. It’s a combination of rice and pigeon peas cooked with aromatic sofrito, herbs and spices. Its popularity compares to no other dish in Puerto Rico. No matter the occasion, you will always find a caldero of arroz con gandules at every party or family gathering.

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