Description

Craving a vibrant, zesty side dish that elevates any meal with minimal effort? What if you could whip up a fragrant, restaurant-style rice dish in just 30 minutes, bursting with fresh lime and cilantro flavors? Say hello to Lime Cilantro Rice! This simple recipe transforms long-grain white rice into a flavorful side with a buttery base, bright lime juice, and aromatic cilantro. Perfect for pairing with tacos, grilled meats, or burrito bowls, this beginner-friendly dish delivers bold, refreshing taste with pantry staples.

Ingredients

For the Rice

Water (2 cups): The cooking liquid for tender, fluffy rice.
Kosher Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the rice’s flavor during cooking.
Long-Grain White Rice (1 cup): Provides a fluffy, non-sticky texture; jasmine or basmati work well.
Butter (1 tbsp): Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel.

For the Flavoring

Chopped Cilantro (½ cup): Brings fresh, herbaceous flavor and vibrant color.
Fresh Lime Juice (2 tbsp): Adds bright, tangy acidity.
Lime Zest (1 tsp): Intensifies the citrusy aroma and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Long-Grain White Rice: Swap with basmati, jasmine, or parboiled rice; adjust cooking time per package. Brown rice works but requires 40–45 minutes and ½ cup more water.
Butter: Replace with olive oil, avocado oil, or vegan butter for dietary needs.
Cilantro: Substitute with fresh parsley, green onions, or basil for a different herbaceous note (cilantro is key for authentic flavor).
Lime Juice: Use lemon juice or bottled lime juice for similar acidity; fresh is best for brightness.
Lime Zest: Swap with lemon zest or omit if unavailable, increasing lime juice to 2½ tbsp.
Kosher Salt: Use table salt (reduce to ¾ tsp) or sea salt; adjust to taste.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use vegan butter or olive oil; recipe is naturally vegetarian.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure rice and butter are gluten-free (check for cross-contamination).

Optional Additions

Spices: Add ¼ tsp cumin, chili powder, or garlic powder to the cooking water for extra depth.
Vegetables: Stir in ¼ cup diced scallions, corn kernels, or peas after cooking for texture.
Heat: Mix in ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.

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Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:
- Gather 2 cups water, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1 cup long-grain white rice, 1 tbsp butter, ½ cup chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1 tsp lime zest.
- Rinse rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear (about 30 seconds) to remove excess starch.
- Chop cilantro finely and zest/juice 1–2 limes to yield required amounts.
- Tip: Rinse rice to prevent stickiness; chop cilantro just before use to maintain freshness.
Cook the Rice:
- In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups water and 1 tsp kosher salt to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Stir in 1 cup rinsed long-grain white rice and 1 tbsp butter.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
- Tip: Use a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid; avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain steam.
Fluff and Flavor the Rice:
- Fluff rice with a fork to separate grains.
- Just before serving, add ½ cup chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1 tsp lime zest to the saucepan.
- Stir gently to combine, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Tip: Add flavorings off heat to preserve cilantro’s freshness; taste and adjust lime or salt if needed.
Serve:
- Transfer rice to a serving bowl or individual plates, garnishing with extra cilantro or a lime wedge if desired.
- Serve warm as a side with tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or burrito bowls.
- Pair with a margarita, iced tea, or sparkling water for a complete meal.
- Tip: Serve immediately for best texture; keep warm in a covered dish if not serving right away.