Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe – A Flavorful Delight

Imagine a bowl of fluffy rice, each grain infused with zesty lime and fragrant cilantro, dancing together in a vibrant green embrace. That’s Cilantro Lime Rice for you; it’s like a fiesta in your mouth, bursting with freshness and flavor. creamy potato soup Whether you’re serving it alongside some spicy tacos or just enjoying it as a side dish while binge-watching your favorite show, this delightful dish brings joy to any table.

Now, let’s be honest — who doesn’t love a dish that looks as good as it tastes? The bright green cilantro against the soft white rice creates a stunning visual treat. Plus, the aroma? It’s enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Trust me, one whiff and you’ll be counting down the minutes until it’s ready to devour!

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family. My younger brother took one bite and declared he would eat it every day for the rest of his life — bold words from a picky eater!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Long-Grain White Rice: A classic choice that keeps its shape well; rinse before cooking for best texture.
• Fresh Cilantro: Bright green and fragrant; choose leaves that are vibrant and free from browning.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed gives the best flavor; bottled juice lacks that zingy freshness.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds depth; avoid pre-minced options for better taste.
• Vegetable Broth or Water: Using broth enhances flavor; water works if you’re in a pinch.
• Salt: Just enough to balance the flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Rice: Begin by rinsing one cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch ensuring fluffy rice.

Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds.

Add Liquid: Pour in two cups of vegetable broth or water along with salt. Bring this mixture to a boil while keeping your eyes peeled for bubbles.

Combine Rice: Once boiling, stir in the rinsed rice and reduce heat to low. Cover tightly with a lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Flavor: After cooking, remove from heat but keep covered for an additional 5 minutes. Then fluff gently with a fork before adding chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Serve Warm: Transfer your Cilantro Lime Rice into a serving bowl and enjoy immediately or keep warm on low heat until ready to serve. For more inspiration, check out this Greek salmon quinoa salad recipe.

And voilà! You’ve made Cilantro Lime Rice that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds (or maybe even thirds). Enjoy it as an accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish, toss it into burrito bowls, or even savor it alone like I do when no one’s watching! For more inspiration, check out this easy chicken spring rolls recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the rice to remove excess starch, then cook it in a blend of broth and water for extra flavor. Fluff with a fork for the perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding diced jalapeños for spice or black beans for protein. delicious bean soup You can also swap cilantro with parsley if you’re not a fan.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cilantro lime rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave to keep it fluffy.

I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone was raving about how refreshing and vibrant it was. My cousin even asked for seconds—now that’s a win!

FAQ

How can I make cilantro lime rice vegan?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth while cooking the rice.

Can I freeze cilantro lime rice?

Yes, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to three months.

What can I serve with cilantro lime rice?

sweet pumpkin rolls.

It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp tacos, or as a base for burrito bowls. pair with garlic spaghetti.

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Cilantro Lime Rice

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• Author: mydishtoday
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Bright, zesty, and bursting with flavor, Cilantro Lime Rice is the perfect accompaniment for any meal. This simple yet vibrant dish combines fluffy long-grain rice with fresh cilantro and tangy lime juice, creating a delightful experience that elevates everything from tacos to grilled meats. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this rice is sure to impress at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour in vegetable broth and salt; bring to a boil.
4. Stir in the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then mix in cilantro and lime juice.
6. Serve warm as a side dish or base for burrito bowls.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (100g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg