Cilantro Lime Rice

Mexican-American · Side · Easy

Cilantro Lime Rice

Total
35 min
Prep
10 min
Serves
4
Calories
200
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Fluffy long-grain rice gets a fresh finish of lime juice and chopped cilantro, keeping the grains separate and bright beside beans or grilled vegetables.

Adding herbs after steaming keeps Cilantro Lime Rice fragrant instead of dull. A short covered rest finishes the grains gently, leaving them ready to absorb lime juice without turning sticky.

Rinse until the water runs mostly clear and use a pot with a snug lid. Long-grain white rice gives a lighter result than short-grain rice, which releases more starch and clumps together.

Method

  1. Combine long-grain white rice, measured water, olive oil and salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover and reduce heat to low.

  2. Simmer for without lifting the lid until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and rest, covered, for until the grains are tender.

  3. Fluff with a fork. Fold in lime juice, lime zest and cilantro, lifting gently rather than stirring vigorously.

Forkue tips

  • If your rice package calls for a different water ratio, follow that ratio while keeping the lime and herb finish unchanged.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze portions for 1 month. Reheat covered with a spoonful of water until steaming, then add fresh cilantro if available.

Nutrition per serving, estimated

200Calories
4gProtein
38gCarbs
4gFat

Photo: Brian Child, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)

Cilantro Lime Rice: FAQ

Can I use brown rice?

Yes. Use the package water ratio and simmering time, which are longer than for white rice. Add the lime and cilantro only after resting.

Why is my rice gummy?

It may have retained too much surface starch or been stirred during cooking. Rinse well, keep the lid closed and fluff only after the covered rest.

How do I store and reheat Cilantro Lime Rice?

Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze portions for 1 month. Reheat covered with a spoonful of water until steaming, then add fresh cilantro if available.

How long does Cilantro Lime Rice take?

About 35 min in total: 10 min prep and 25 min cooking.

What do I need to make Cilantro Lime Rice?

The key ingredients are long-grain white rice, lime juice, lime zest and cilantro, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Cilantro Lime Rice?

If your rice package calls for a different water ratio, follow that ratio while keeping the lime and herb finish unchanged.