Cilantro Lime Rice (Print Version)

Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro, zesty lime juice, and aromatic garlic. A vibrant 30-minute side dish perfect for Mexican and Asian-inspired meals.

# Components:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings

05 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 - Zest of 1 lime
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
08 - 1 clove garlic, minced

# Method:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
02 - In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring constantly to coat grains with oil.
04 - Pour in water and add salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
05 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
06 - Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro until evenly distributed.
07 - Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed. Serve warm as a side dish.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The lime wakes up every single grain of rice while the cilantro makes it taste impossibly fresh
  • It turns any ordinary Tuesday dinner into something that feels restaurant special
  • This recipe is forgiving and works with whatever rice you have hiding in your pantry
02 -
  • Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and is the difference between fluffy grains and a gummy mess
  • Letting the rice rest off the heat with the lid on is crucial for even texture
  • Stir in the fresh herbs right before serving to keep their color bright and flavor bold
03 -
  • Use a microplane or fine grater for the lime zest to avoid bitter white pith
  • If your rice turns out too sticky, rinse it more thoroughly next time
  • Leftover rice makes an excellent fried rice the next day
Return