Cilantro Lime Rice (Printable)

Aromatic fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, ready in 30 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Rice Base

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, such as 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, approximately 1 lime
08 - 1 clove garlic, minced, optional

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
02 - In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic if using and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains evenly with the aromatic oil.
04 - Pour in the water and add the salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and all water is absorbed.
05 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow steam to distribute evenly.
06 - Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro until well incorporated.
07 - Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed. Serve warm alongside grilled meats, tacos, or roasted vegetables.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The lime wakes up every single grain while cilantro adds that fresh bite that cuts through rich main dishes
  • It turns a five dollar bag of rice into restaurant quality side dish that makes people think you tried harder than you actually did
02 -
  • Never lift the lid while the rice simmers or you will let out the steam that actually cooks the grains
  • Adding lime juice while the rice is still hot helps the grains absorb that citrus flavor more deeply
03 -
  • Use a microplane for the lime zest to avoid getting any bitter white pith in your rice
  • Toast the rice in the dry pan before adding oil for an even nuttier flavor profile
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