Cilantro Lime Rice (Print Version)

Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime for a vibrant, flavorful side.

# Components:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings

05 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (approximately 1 lime)
07 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

# Method:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
02 - Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly translucent.
03 - Add water and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
04 - Remove from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking.
05 - Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in butter if using, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until evenly combined. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms plain rice into something people actually ask for seconds of, without any complicated technique.
  • The lime and cilantro wake up your palate, making it the perfect partner for rich or spicy mains.
  • You can have it ready in the time it takes to grill your protein, and it holds well if dinner runs late.
02 -
  • Do not skip rinsing the rice, because the starch on the surface will turn your fluffy side dish into a sticky mess.
  • Add the lime juice after cooking, not during, or the acid will interfere with the rice and leave you with mushy grains.
  • If your rice turns out too firm, sprinkle in a tablespoon of water, cover, and let it steam for another 2 minutes off the heat.
03 -
  • Zest the lime before you juice it, because trying to zest a juiced lime is frustrating and messy.
  • If you want to make this ahead, cook the rice and let it cool, then store it plain and stir in the lime, cilantro, and butter right before serving so the flavors stay bright.
  • Use day-old rice if you have it, because it reheats beautifully and the grains stay separate, making it perfect for meal prep.
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