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Easy Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

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A quick and flavorful cilantro lime rice side dish ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 190 grams)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (480 ml)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (about 15 grams)
  • 1 large lime, juiced and zested
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (15 ml)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold running water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear (2-3 minutes).
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 30 seconds.
  3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the oil and garlic.
  4. Pour in 2 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth and add ½ teaspoon salt. Stir once to combine.
  5. Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
  7. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Add lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
  8. Season with freshly ground black pepper if desired. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Notes

Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. Do not lift the lid while simmering to keep steam trapped. Let rice rest covered after cooking for fluffier texture. Add lime juice and cilantro just before serving to keep flavors fresh. For dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter. Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time (40-45 minutes) and more water.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, easy rice recipe, quick side dish, Mexican rice, cilantro rice, lime rice, weeknight dinner, healthy side

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/easy-cilantro-lime-rice-recipe-15-minutes-perfect-homemade-side-dish/