lime and cilantro rice recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best lime and cilantro rice recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes that never fails to impress – lime and cilantro rice. This dish has been a staple in many Latin American countries for centuries, and I’m not surprised why – the combination of tangy lime juice, fresh cilantro, and fragrant garlic is a match made in heaven.

When I first tried this recipe, I was hooked. The flavors are so bright and refreshing, it’s like a taste explosion in your mouth.

My kids love it when I serve it with grilled chicken or fish, and my husband requests it every time we have family gatherings. The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make – just sauté some onions, garlic, and cilantro in a bit of oil, then add in cooked rice, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for your next party. Plus, the health benefits are numerous – the antioxidants in lime juice and cilantro help boost your immune system, while the fiber in rice keeps you feeling full and satisfied all day long.

I like to think of this recipe as a hug in a bowl – it’s warm, comforting, and always makes me feel better when I’m down. So go ahead, give it a try, and see why this lime and cilantro rice recipe has become a staple in our household.

Lime and Cilantro Rice

4.8 from 1358 votes

This lime and cilantro rice is a zesty side dish with fresh flavors. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or as a base for burrito bowls.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice

2 cups long grain white rice
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Lime and Cilantro Mixture

Juice of 2 limes
1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
Drain well.
3In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt.
4Bring to a boil over high heat.
5Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes.
6The rice is done when all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7Fluff the rice with a fork and remove from heat.
8While the rice is cooking, prepare the lime and cilantro mixture.
9In a large mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
10Mix well to combine.
11Once the rice is cooked and fluffed, transfer it to the large mixing bowl with the lime and cilantro mixture.
12Gently fold the rice into the mixture until it is evenly coated.
13Be careful not to mash the rice.
14Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper to your liking.
15Serve immediately while the rice is still warm.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 300mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can sauté the rice in a bit of oil before adding the water. This technique, known as toasting the rice, can enhance the nutty flavor of the rice. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be longer.

This lime and cilantro rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – simply refrigerate or freeze leftovers for up to three days without losing its flavor or texture.

When reheating leftovers, be sure to add some extra water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Some other ideas for using up leftover lime and cilantro rice include turning it into fried rice by adding some scrambled eggs or diced veggies; making a batch of homemade burritos with leftover chicken or beef; or even using it as a base for next-level nachos by topping it with melted cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lime and Cilantro Rice

Q: What type of rice works best for this recipe?

The best type of rice to use for this recipe is long-grain white rice. You can also use brown rice if you prefer a nuttier flavor.

Q: Can I substitute the lime juice with lemon juice?

No, you should not substitute the lime juice with lemon juice as it will change the flavor profile of the dish. If you don’t have lime juice or prefer not to use it, you can omit it altogether.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe is quick and easy to prepare – it takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by cooking the rice and preparing the other ingredients separately. Then simply assemble everything together before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?

You can use dried cilantro instead of fresh if you don’t have any on hand.

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