Cilantro Lime Rice (Printable)

Fluffy rice blended with fresh cilantro and zesty lime for a bright, flavorful side dish.

# What You 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)

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
02 - Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly translucent.
03 - Stir in water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
04 - Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
05 - Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in butter if using, then add lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro, mixing until evenly combined. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in less than half an hour and uses ingredients you probably already have.
  • The lime and cilantro brighten up even the heaviest meal without stealing the spotlight.
  • You can make it your own by swapping in broth or adding garlic depending on what you have around.
02 -
  • Do not skip rinsing the rice, because the excess starch will make it sticky and heavy instead of fluffy.
  • Let the rice rest after cooking, or it will be wet and clumpy when you try to fluff it.
  • Add the lime juice and cilantro at the very end so the heat does not dull the bright flavors you are aiming for.
03 -
  • Use a fork to fluff the rice, not a spoon, because a spoon will crush the grains and make them dense.
  • Taste the rice before you add all the lime juice, because limes vary in strength and you can always add more but you cannot take it back.
  • If you are making this ahead, cook the rice and let it cool, then stir in the lime and cilantro right before serving so the flavors stay bright and lively.
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