Cilantro Lime Rice is a bright, fragrant, and flavorful side dish that instantly elevates any meal. Fluffy rice is infused with fresh lime juice, aromatic cilantro, and a hint of garlic, creating a light yet zesty dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of cuisines. Popular in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking, this rice is loved for its refreshing taste and versatility.
What makes cilantro lime rice special is its balance—tangy citrus, fresh herbs, and perfectly cooked grains come together without overpowering the main dish. Whether served alongside grilled meats, tucked into burrito bowls, or enjoyed on its own, this rice adds freshness and color to the plate while remaining simple and comforting.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, reliable, and packed with fresh flavor. With just a few ingredients, plain rice transforms into something vibrant and exciting. The lime adds brightness while cilantro brings a clean, herbaceous finish that never feels heavy.
Another reason I love it is how adaptable it is—it works with so many meals and tastes great warm or at room temperature.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
This recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy yet delivers restaurant-style results at home. It complements spicy, savory, and grilled dishes beautifully and works well for meal prep. If you’re looking for a flavorful rice recipe that’s anything but boring, cilantro lime rice is essential.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 200–220 calories per serving
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican / Tex-Mex
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
Cooking Directions
This recipe involves cooking rice until fluffy, then gently folding in lime juice, zest, cilantro, and seasoning for a bright, fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, olive oil or butter, salt, and garlic (if using). Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes.
Step 3: Rest the Rice
Remove from heat and let rice sit covered for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Fluff
Fluff rice gently with a fork to separate grains.
Step 5: Add Flavor
Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro until evenly combined.
How to Serve
Serve cilantro lime rice as a side with grilled chicken, fish, shrimp, tacos, or fajitas. It’s also perfect for burrito bowls, rice bowls, or as a base for beans and vegetables. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Rinse rice for fluffy texture
- Use broth instead of water for more flavor
- Add lime juice after cooking to avoid bitterness
- Chop cilantro finely for even distribution
- Fluff gently to avoid mushy rice
Variations
Brown Rice Version
Use brown rice and increase cooking time accordingly.
Coconut Cilantro Lime Rice
Replace half the water with coconut milk.
Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice
Add chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
Garlic Butter Rice
Use butter and extra garlic for richer flavor.
Herb Blend Rice
Mix cilantro with parsley or green onions.
Freezing and Storage Time
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Special Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Conclusion
Cilantro Lime Rice is a simple yet vibrant dish that transforms plain rice into something fresh and exciting. With bright citrus flavor and aromatic herbs, it’s the perfect side for countless meals and cuisines. Easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and endlessly versatile, this recipe is a must-have for any home cook looking to add flavor with minimal effort.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Description
Cilantro Lime Rice is a bright, fragrant, and flavorful side dish that instantly elevates any meal. Fluffy rice is infused with fresh lime juice, aromatic cilantro, and a hint of garlic, creating a light yet zesty dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of cuisines. Popular in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking, this rice is loved for its refreshing taste and versatility.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Rinse the Rice : Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch.
-
Cook the Rice : In a saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, olive oil or butter, salt, and garlic (if using). Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes.
-
Rest the Rice : Remove from heat and let rice sit covered for 5 minutes.
-
Fluff : Fluff rice gently with a fork to separate grains.
-
Add Flavor : Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro until evenly combined.
