Description
This vibrant Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is a simple and flavorful side dish featuring tender long grain white rice infused with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Perfect for pairing with Mexican dishes, grilled meats, or as a zesty base for bowls, it brings a refreshing citrusy twist to everyday rice, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Base
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 ¾ cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
Flavoring
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 lime)
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: In a medium-sized pot, bring 1 ¾ cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add 1 cup of long grain white rice, 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the rice: Return the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the rice simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed. Avoid removing the lid during cooking to ensure proper steaming.
- Rest the rice: Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit, uncovered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows excess moisture to evaporate and the grains to firm up slightly.
- Fluff and add flavor: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, separating the grains. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of avocado oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, and ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro until everything is evenly combined.
- Serve: Transfer the cilantro lime rice to a serving dish and serve warm as a zesty side that complements a variety of main dishes.
Notes
- For extra zest, add lime zest along with the lime juice.
- Use a fork to fluff the rice to prevent mushiness.
- Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avocado oil can be substituted with olive oil or vegetable oil.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if serving with salty main dishes.
