This squash and corn yellow rice is a simple, comforting dish made with tender squash, sweet corn, and seasoned rice cooked together in one pot.
It’s slightly sweet, savory, and incredibly satisfying—perfect as a main dish or a side. This recipe is especially great when you have an abundance of squash like Seminole pumpkin, calabaza, or butternut.
Ingredients
- 5 cups jasmine rice
- 1⅓ cups sofrito
- 2 lbs squash (Seminole pumpkin, calabaza, or butternut), peeled and diced
- 2 cans sweet corn (with liquid)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet Goya Sazón
- 3 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Handful of fresh cilantro (or culantro/epazote)
- Water
How to Make Squash and Corn Yellow Rice
1. Build the Flavor Base
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil, sofrito, and garlic.
Cook for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste and mix until fully incorporated.
2. Add Corn and Seasoning
Add the canned corn (including the liquid), Sazón, and chicken bouillon.
Stir well to combine and build the base flavor.
3. Add Squash and Herbs
Add the diced squash and fresh herbs.
Mix everything together so the squash is coated in the seasoned base.
4. Add Rice and Water
Add the rice and pour in enough water so it sits about 1 inch above the rice.
Stir well.
Taste the broth—it should taste slightly salty, since the rice will absorb the flavor as it cooks.
5. Cook the Rice
Cover and reduce heat to low.
Let it cook for about 35–45 minutes, stirring gently every 10 minutes to prevent sticking.
The dish is ready when:
- Rice is fully cooked
- Squash is soft and tender
6. Garnish and Serve
Fluff the rice and top with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use any squash: Butternut, calabaza, or Seminole pumpkin all work
- Don’t skip tasting the broth: This is key for flavorful rice
- Keep heat low: Rice should steam, not boil
- Make it a meal: Serve with grilled meat or beans
This squash and corn yellow rice is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, made with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to make, easy to love, and even better when made with homegrown ingredients.
👉 Shop Seminole pumpkin seeds in the Seed & Plant Shop to grow your own for recipes like this.