The Perfect Sidekick: Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro Lime Rice is one of those dishes that can turn an ordinary meal into something special. You’ll often find it in burrito bowls, loved for its fresh and lively flavor.
What makes this recipe great is its balance. The rich rice gets a lift from fresh lime, and cilantro adds a cool, herbal touch. The result is light, fluffy, and goes with almost anything.
The Ingredient List
Each ingredient below helps create the fluffy texture and zesty flavor that make this rice stand out:
- Long-grain white rice: Basmati or Jasmine works best. Their low starch keeps the grains separate and prevents clumping.
- Fresh lime juice and zest: The juice adds tang, while the zest brings out the citrus aroma.
- Fresh cilantro: Use both the leaves and tender stems for that earthy, green flavor.
- Garlic and onion: Sauté them in oil first to build a savory base.
- Vegetable oil or butter: Toasting the rice in fat before adding water keeps it from getting mushy.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Using broth instead of water adds extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the rice: This step matters most. Put the rice in a mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water is clear. This washes away extra starch.
- Toast the grains: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the rice and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the grains are slightly see-through and smell nutty.
- Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until you smell the garlic.
- Simmer: Add your broth or water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat all the way. Cover tightly and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Let it rest: Turn off the heat and leave the lid on. Let the rice steam for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the moisture to spread evenly.
- Add the finishing touches: Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently mix in the lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro.
What to Eat With Cilantro Lime Rice
This rice is citrusy and savory, so it goes well with grilled meats and spicy sauces. Here are some great ways to enjoy it:
- Shrimp or fish tacos: The lime in the rice matches the seafood flavors.
- Grilled skirt steak: The rice’s acidity balances the beef’s richness.
- Black bean bowls: This is a classic vegetarian choice. Try it with canned black beans and sliced avocado.
- Chicken adobo: The smoky, spicy chicken is balanced by the cool cilantro in the rice.
- Roasted veggies: Serve the rice with roasted sweet potatoes or bell peppers for a healthy, affordable meal.
What equipment or kitchen supplies do I need?
Cilantro Lime Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups long grain rice Basmati or Jasmine rice is best
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice about 2 large limes
- 5 cups chicken broth or 2 tbsp chicken bouillon dissolved in 5 cups of water
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- lime zest
- 2 cloves garlic (optional) minced
Instructions
- Heat tablespoons of oil or butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the rice and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the grains are slightly see-through and smell nutty.2 tbsp butter or olive oil, 2 cups long grain rice
- Stir in minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until you smell the garlic.5 cups chicken broth, 2 cloves garlic (optional)
- Add your broth or water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat all the way. Cover tightly and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and leave the lid on. Let the rice steam for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the moisture to spread evenly.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently mix in the lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy!½ cup chopped fresh cilantro, lime zest, ¼ cup fresh lime juice
Notes
I use a 2.5:1 ratio when cooking my rice.
Nutrition
Serving: 146gCalories: 171kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 3gFat: 0.33gSodium: 23mgSugar: 0.22g
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