Cilantro Lime Rice Side (Printable)

Fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, ideal as a flavorful side with grilled or Mexican-inspired meals.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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 (about 1 lime)
07 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
02 - Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly 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 water is absorbed.
04 - Remove the pan from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
05 - Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in butter if using, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until well mixed.
06 - Serve the rice warm alongside tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms plain rice into something bright and alive with just a handful of fresh ingredients.
  • The lime zest adds a fragrant pop that bottled juice alone could never deliver.
  • It pairs with nearly everything, from weeknight tacos to grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
  • You can make it in the same amount of time as boring white rice, so there's no extra effort.
02 -
  • If you skip rinsing the rice, it will clump together and turn gluey no matter how carefully you cook it.
  • Add the lime juice and cilantro after cooking, not before, or the acidity will turn the herbs brown and dull.
  • Don't lift the lid while the rice simmers or you'll release steam and end up with unevenly cooked grains.
03 -
  • Zest the lime before you juice it, it's nearly impossible to zest a halved lime and you'll waste the flavorful oils.
  • If your rice turns out too wet, spread it on a baking sheet and let it air-dry for a few minutes before adding the lime and cilantro.
  • For the fluffiest texture, use a fork instead of a spoon to stir, it separates the grains without mashing them.
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