Description
This fresh and zesty Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is a vibrant side dish perfect for complementing Mexican, Tex-Mex, or grilled meals. Made with fluffy long-grain white rice, fresh cilantro, tangy lime juice, and a hint of garlic, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cilantro Lime Mixture
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- Prepare the cilantro lime mixture: While the rice cooks, in a small bowl mix together the chopped cilantro, freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Combine and fluff: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork. Fold in the cilantro lime mixture evenly throughout the rice, ensuring the flavors are well distributed.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice is essential for fluffy, separate grains.
- You can adjust the lime juice and cilantro amounts to taste for more tang or herb flavor.
- Serve this rice as a side with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or alongside beans for a complete meal.
- Leftover rice stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
