A 'side of Mexico' sure to enhance any Mexican meal.

Mexican Rice

2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 cup long-grain white rice
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 (16-ounce) jar thick and chunky salsa
1 1/4 cups water
1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)

1. Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Add rice, onion and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes or until rice is golden. Stir in salsa, water, carrot and peas. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cook, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

Makes 8 servings.

*Note: For a quick-cook Mexican Rice, use 4 cups instant rice instead of 1 cup long-grain white rice, and 2 1/2 cups water instead of 1 1/4 cups water. After salsa mixture comes to a boil, cook for length of time recommended on instant rice package.

Recipe and photograph are the property of Nestlé® and Meals.com, used with permission.