Cilantro Lime Rice (Printable)

Fragrant rice accented with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, perfect 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 (approximately 1 lime)
07 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
02 - Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly translucent.
03 - Add water and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
04 - Remove from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes to complete steaming.
05 - Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in butter if using, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until evenly combined. Serve warm as a side.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in 30 minutes flat, making weeknight dinners feel intentional instead of rushed.
  • The bright lime and fresh cilantro elevate even the simplest grilled protein into something restaurant-worthy.
  • Once you understand how to toast the rice first, you'll never go back to plain white rice again.
02 -
  • Never skip the rinsing step—I once tried to save time and ended up with rice that stuck together in a starchy clump.
  • Add the cilantro and lime after the rice finishes cooking; adding them while hot lets the heat gently release the oils and flavors rather than cooking them away to nothing.
03 -
  • Toast the rice in oil before adding liquid—this is the step that transforms it from ordinary to the kind of rice people notice.
  • Always zest the lime before juicing it; once the lime is cut in half, zesting becomes nearly impossible.
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