Cilantro Lime Rice (Printable Version)

Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, perfect as a flavorful side dish.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ 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)

# Steps:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes like you've been working on it all day.
  • The brightness of lime and cilantro makes every meal feel fresher and more intentional.
  • It pairs beautifully with almost any protein, making it your new go-to whenever you're stuck on sides.
02 -
  • Don't peek under the lid while the rice cooks—I learned this the hard way when I kept checking and ended up with slightly undercooked grains.
  • Fresh cilantro makes or breaks this dish, so if you find yourself looking at sad, brown cilantro, honestly just skip it and make a simple lime rice instead.
  • Add the lime juice and cilantro right before serving so they stay vibrant and don't turn muted or bitter from sitting in heat.
03 -
  • Buy cilantro whole and use the tender leaves and stems together—the stems have just as much flavor as the leaves and no one will know the difference.
  • If you're making this for a crowd, the recipe doubles beautifully, but don't double the salt right away; taste and adjust instead.
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