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Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro Lime Rice

5 from 15 votes
Get ready to jazz up your meals with our Cilantro Lime Rice! This super easy recipe is bursting with fresh flavors. Just cook up some jasmine rice with a hint of garlic, scallions, and lime zest, then toss in some cilantro and lime juice for that extra zing. It's perfect as a side dish or base for your favorite bowls. Give it a try and add a tasty twist to your dinner tonight!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian, Mexican
Calories: 194
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain jasmine rice, rinsed well and drained
  • 1½ cups water
  • 3 tsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
  • 2 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1½ tbsp sea salt
  • ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan with a lid, combine the rinsed rice, water, and 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and simmer for 20 minutes, or according to the instructions on the rice package.
  3. After 20 minutes, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
  4. Add the minced garlic, chopped scallions, and lime zest to the rice. Stir to combine.
  5. Let the rice cool for 1 minute, then add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, ¼ teaspoon of salt, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lime juice according to your preference.
  7. Serve the Cilantro Lime Rice hot as a side dish or use it as the base for your favorite burrito bowl or stir-fry. Enjoy!

Notes

Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, try toasting the rice before cooking it. Simply heat a dry saucepan over medium heat, add the rinsed rice, and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant. Then proceed with the recipe as usual. Toasting the rice adds a nutty depth to the dish that complements the citrusy brightness of the lime and the herbal freshness of the cilantro.
Variation: To make this recipe even more versatile, consider adding some diced jalapeños or red bell peppers for a touch of heat and sweetness. You can also swap out the jasmine rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist. Additionally, if you're a fan of creamy textures, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a luscious finish. Get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!