Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This rice is light, fragrant, and perfectly seasoned with lime and cilantro. It’s easy to make, pairs with a variety of proteins and vegetables, and can be made in large batches for meal prep. The fresh citrus flavor elevates simple rice into a standout side dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Long-grain white rice
- Water or chicken/vegetable broth
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic
- Lime juice
- Fresh cilantro
- Salt
Directions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add the rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in water or broth and add salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 15–18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 4 people.
Preparation time is approximately 5 minutes, with a cooking time of 18 minutes.
Variations
Add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a subtle spice. Mix in diced green onions, roasted corn, or black beans for extra flavor and texture. Brown rice or jasmine rice can be used as alternatives for a different texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but cooking time will be longer and liquid ratio may need adjusting.
Can I make this rice ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
How much cilantro should I use?
About ¼ to ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro works well, depending on taste.
Can I use lime zest as well?
Yes, adding lime zest enhances the citrus flavor.
Is this rice vegan?
Yes, use olive oil or vegetable broth to keep it vegan.
Can I add other herbs?
Fresh parsley or green onions can be added for variation.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Rinse the rice thoroughly and keep the heat low while simmering.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I freeze cilantro lime rice?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months; add fresh cilantro after reheating for best flavor.
Conclusion
Cilantro lime rice is a bright, flavorful side that elevates any meal. Its combination of zesty lime, fragrant cilantro, and fluffy rice makes it a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.
PrintCilantro Lime Rice
Fluffy cilantro lime rice with fresh lime juice and fragrant cilantro, perfect as a zesty side for Mexican, Tex-Mex, or Asian-inspired meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling/Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican/Tex-Mex
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken/vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add the rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in water or broth and add salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 15–18 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
- Add a pinch of cumin or chili powder for subtle spice.
- Mix in diced green onions, roasted corn, or black beans for extra flavor and texture.
- Brown rice or jasmine rice can be used as alternatives; adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
- Fresh cilantro is best added after reheating if freezing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup cooked rice
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
