Cilantro Lime Rice (Print Version)

Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice—ideal Mexican and Asian-inspired side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Rice

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
08 - 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and achieve optimal texture.
02 - Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic if using and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the rinsed rice and stir continuously to coat all grains evenly with oil.
03 - Pour in the water and add the salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and all water is absorbed.
04 - Remove from heat and allow the rice to stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently using a fork to separate the grains.
05 - Stir in the lime zest, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro until evenly distributed throughout the rice.
06 - Taste the rice and adjust salt or lime juice to your preference. Serve warm as an accompaniment to your main course.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • It transforms plain rice into something vibrant without adding much time or effort to your routine.
  • The fresh cilantro and lime wake up your taste buds and make even simple meals feel intentional.
  • Leftovers taste amazing cold in grain bowls or reheated the next day.
  • You probably already have most of the ingredients sitting in your pantry right now.
02 -
  • Rinsing the rice is non-negotiable, I skipped it once and ended up with sticky, gluey rice that no amount of lime could save.
  • Add the cilantro and lime after cooking, not before, or the heat will dull their bright, fresh flavors.
  • If your rice turns out too firm, sprinkle in a tablespoon of water, cover, and let it steam for another few minutes off the heat.
03 -
  • Use the finest grater you have for the lime zest to avoid any bitter white pith sneaking into your rice.
  • If you want restaurant-level fluffiness, let the rice cool slightly before adding the lime juice so the acidity doesn't make it sticky.
  • Always taste before serving, lime and salt levels can vary wildly depending on your limes and personal preference.
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