I still remember the first time I made this cilantro lime rice recipe — the bright aroma filled my kitchen instantly. After mixing fluffy rice with fresh lime and cilantro, I knew it would become a regular side dish.
It’s simple, but every bite tastes fresh and vibrant. I started pairing it with almost everything, from tacos to grilled vegetables. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful rice:
- 1 cup long-grain jasmine rice (rinsed well for fluffy texture)
- 1½ cups water (for perfectly cooked rice)
- 3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil (adds light flavor and prevents sticking)
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (for savory depth)
- 2 scallions, finely chopped (adds mild onion flavor)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (for strong citrus aroma)
- ¼–½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice (adds bright tang)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for fresh herbal flavor)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or ¼ diced jalapeño (optional heat)
Note: Serves about 4 people.
Variations
This recipe is very flexible. You can adjust it easily:
- Use brown rice for a healthier, whole-grain version.
- Replace lime with lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Add diced jalapeño for extra spice.
- Make it dairy-free by using only olive oil.
- Mix in black beans or corn for a heartier dish.
- You can also enjoy similar comfort-style meals like cheesy-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole-recipe and mac-and-cheese-casserole-with-chicken-recipe for more delicious inspiration.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Medium saucepan with lid – for cooking the rice evenly
- Fine-mesh strainer – to rinse the rice properly
- Citrus zester or grater – to prepare fresh lime zest
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping ingredients
How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe?
Cook the Rice
First, I rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. This removes extra starch and keeps the rice fluffy. Then I combine the rice, water, and olive oil in a saucepan. I bring it to a boil, cover it with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. I let it cook gently until the water is absorbed and the rice becomes tender.
Add the Flavor
Once the rice is cooked, I remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Then I fluff it with a fork. I mix in garlic, scallions, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and cilantro. I stir everything gently so the flavors blend evenly without crushing the grains.
Serve and Enjoy
After mixing, I taste and adjust salt if needed. The rice is best served warm. The lime and cilantro flavors shine when it’s fresh. I like serving it immediately as a bright side dish.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience, these small steps make a big difference:
- Always rinse the rice well to keep it light and fluffy.
- Let the rice cool slightly before adding cilantro so it stays bright green.
- Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for better flavor.
- Add lime zest — it gives stronger citrus taste than juice alone.
- Taste before serving and adjust salt if needed.
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe?
This rice works beautifully with many meals. I love serving it with tacos, burrito bowls, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with seafood or beans.
For presentation, I like to place it in a serving bowl and sprinkle extra cilantro on top. Adding lime wedges on the side makes it look fresh and colorful. It also works great as a base for meal-prep bowls with protein and vegetables.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 130–150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 2–4g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before storing.
Freezing
You can freeze cilantro lime rice for up to 3 months. Place it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a small splash of water before warming to keep it moist. Stir gently while heating for even texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this rice will become your favorite side dish:
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools.
- Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Fresh, bright flavor that enhances many main dishes.
- Easily customizable with spices, herbs, or grains.
- Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful side dish that adds freshness to any meal, this cilantro lime rice recipe is the perfect choice. It’s simple, vibrant, and incredibly versatile — and I’m sure it will become a regular favorite in your kitchen. 🌿🍋🍚
