Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: Elevate Your Meals Today!

There’s a certain magic that happens when you mix fluffy white rice with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. The vibrant flavors dance together in a way that makes your taste buds sing, elevating any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Imagine sitting down to a plate of tacos, then adding a generous scoop of this Cilantro Lime Rice, bursting with bright and refreshing notes.

This dish brings back memories of my family’s summer barbecues where laughter filled the air, and everyone clamored for seconds. The aromatic blend of cilantro and lime always made my mouth water—it’s like sunshine on a plate. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or simply craving comfort food, this cilantro lime rice is sure to become your new favorite side dish.

I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone was asking for the recipe before they even finished their plates.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner recipes recipe.

• Long-grain White Rice: Use high-quality long-grain rice for fluffy texture; avoid short grains as they may clump together.

• Fresh Cilantro: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they should be fragrant and free from wilt or discoloration.

• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the best flavor; bottled options often lack that citrus zing.

• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Butter or Olive Oil: Either adds richness; olive oil is great for a lighter option and extra flavor.

• Water or Broth: Using chicken broth instead of water can deepen the flavor profile significantly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice

Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing one cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until it runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents stickiness.

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with two cups of water or broth and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.

Simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice becomes fluffy.

Add Flavor: After cooking, remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. This allows steam to finish cooking the rice perfectly.

Mix in Ingredients: Fluff the rice gently with a fork before adding two tablespoons each of butter (or olive oil) and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro until evenly distributed.

Taste Test: Finally, season with additional salt if necessary and serve warm as an irresistible side dish that complements any meal perfectly!

Now that you’ve mastered this simple yet flavorful cilantro lime rice recipe, get ready for everyone to ask you how you did it! Enjoy each bite as it transports you to sunny days filled with good food and great company. For more inspiration, check out this great lunch ideas recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the rice to eliminate excess starch. Cook it in chicken broth instead of water for added flavor while you mix lime juice and cilantro for a fresh finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out white rice for brown or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or black beans for protein.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cilantro Lime Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over it and microwave until warm, stirring occasionally.

Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would race to fill their plates first! The laughter and chatter around the table were as delightful as the food itself.

FAQ

What type of rice is best for Cilantro Lime Rice?

Long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine works best for this dish.

Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?

Fresh cilantro gives better flavor; dried may not provide the same zesty kick.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any animal products completely.

Print

Cilantro Lime Rice

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lena
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cilantro Lime Rice is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that perfectly complements tacos, grilled meats, or any summertime meal. The fluffy white rice is infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, creating a delightful taste experience that’s sure to elevate your dining table. This easy-to-make recipe brings sunshine to your plate and evokes memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Pinch of salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, broth (or water), and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in lime juice, butter (or olive oil), and chopped cilantro until evenly mixed.
6. Taste and adjust salt if needed; serve warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ½ cup (90g)
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg