Cilantro Lime Rice
If you’ve ever eaten at a Mexican restaurant or ordered a burrito bowl, chances are you’ve fallen in love with cilantro lime rice. It’s light, zesty, and the perfect balance of fresh herbs and tangy citrus. The best part? You can easily make it at home with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re serving tacos, grilled chicken, or a big pot of chili, this rice will quickly become your go-to side dish.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 Minutes | Cook Time: 20 Minutes
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice (like Basmati or Jasmine)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon salt
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
Zest of 1 lime
½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Directions
Toast the Rice
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the dry rice and stir continuously for 3–4 minutes, until it turns lightly golden. (Add garlic in the last minute if using, so it doesn’t burn.)
Cook the Rice
Pour in the broth and add salt. Stir once, then bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (or according to package instructions) until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Rest
Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This helps it finish steaming.
Fluff & Flavor
Fluff rice with a fork, then gently fold in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
Serve
Pair with tacos, burrito bowls, grilled veggies, or anything that loves a zesty, herby side.
Tips for Success
Wash the Rice. Rinsing the rice removes extra starch so it stays fluffy.
Broth boost. Cooking the rice in broth instead of water adds extra depth.
Variations
Cilantro Lime Brown Rice: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor; just adjust the cooking time.
Coconut-Cilantro Rice: Swap half the broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist.
Spicy Kick: Blend in a jalapeño with the cilantro for heat.
