cilantro and lime rice recipe

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

I’ve been making this cilantro and lime rice recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in my household. The combination of fresh cilantro, tangy lime juice, and aromatic spices creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exotic.

This recipe is a staple in many Latin American countries, where it’s often served alongside grilled meats or as a side dish for tacos. I love how versatile it is – you can serve it at a family gathering or use it as a weeknight dinner staple.

My kids adore the fresh flavors and textures, and I appreciate how easy it is to make in large quantities. The best part?

It’s incredibly healthy, with the cilantro providing a boost of vitamins and antioxidants while the lime juice adds a dose of vitamin C. Whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress.

I’ve found that the key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients – fresh cilantro, real lime juice, and good-quality rice make all the difference in this dish’s flavor and texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of rice or add-ins to make it your own.

Cilantro and Lime Rice

4.7 from 1939 votes

Cilantro and Lime Rice is a fragrant and zesty side dish that complements a variety of meals. It features fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and lime, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Rice

2 cups long-grain white rice
4 cups water

For the Cilantro Lime Mixture

1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Zest of 2 limes
Juice of 2 limes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳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.
3Drain well using a fine mesh strainer.
4In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water.
5Bring to a boil over high heat.
6Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes.
7Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
8After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
9This step allows the rice to steam and become perfectly tender.
10After 10 minutes, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork.
11While the rice is cooking, prepare the cilantro lime mixture.
12In a bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
13Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
14Once the rice has steamed and been fluffed, pour the cilantro lime mixture over the rice.
15Gently fold the mixture into the rice using a fork, ensuring that the rice is evenly coated with the cilantro lime flavors.
16Serve immediately while the rice is still hot.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Fine mesh strainer
Bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Tips: For added heat, mix in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, adjusting the cooking time and water ratio accordingly.

Cilantro and lime rice is a versatile and delicious dish that pairs well with many meals. I always make a big batch for family gatherings, as it’s a crowd-pleaser.

It’s easy to store in the fridge and reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a bit of water or lime juice when reheating to keep it from drying out.

It’s a fantastic side dish for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration. The combination of fresh cilantro and lime gives it a bright, zesty flavor that everyone loves.

It’s a perfect recipe to have on hand for any meal, as it’s quick to make and always a hit. It’s a great way to add some zest to your meals and enjoy the fresh flavors of Mexican cuisine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cilantro and Lime Rice

1. Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh cilantro for this recipe as it provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Dried cilantro can be used in a pinch, but you’ll need to adjust the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Start with about one-third the amount of dried cilantro as you would use fresh.

2. What type of rice should I use for cilantro and lime rice?

Long-grain white rice is traditionally used for cilantro and lime rice because it has a lighter texture and separates well when cooked. However, you can also use brown rice or jasmine rice if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking liquid and time according to the type of rice you are using.

3. Can I make cilantro and lime rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can make cilantro and lime rice ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often meld together even more after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. If you plan to do this, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and add a bit of lime juice before serving to freshen it up.

4. How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan. However, if you want to use a different type of oil other than olive oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or any other plant-based oil of your choice. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

5. Can I add other ingredients to cilantro and lime rice?

Absolutely, feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. Some popular additions include diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, or avocado. You can also add spices like cumin or chili powder for extra heat. Just be mindful of the flavors and adjust accordingly.

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