Cilantro Lime Rice (Print Version)

Fluffy rice flavored with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, great as a vibrant side dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings

05 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
07 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

# How to Prepare:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
02 - Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until rice becomes lightly translucent.
03 - Add water and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
04 - Remove the saucepan from heat and let rice stand covered for 5 minutes.
05 - Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in butter (if using), lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until evenly distributed.
06 - Serve warm as a side dish paired with tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in 30 minutes flat, no fancy techniques required.
  • One pot, minimal cleanup, and your kitchen smells like a fresh lime grove.
  • It transforms simple grilled chicken or fish into something that feels intentional and complete.
02 -
  • Don't skip the rinsing step, even though it feels unnecessary—it's the difference between fluffy and dense.
  • If your rice turns out mushy, you probably didn't reduce the heat low enough, or you kept peeking at it mid-cook.
  • Add the cilantro at the very end; heat makes it lose its brightness and that fresh green flavor you're after.
03 -
  • Keep the heat low during simmering—high heat burns the bottom and dries out the top.
  • The 5-minute rest after cooking is non-negotiable; it lets the rice finish cooking gently in its own steam.
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