Cilantro Lime Rice (Printer-Friendly)

Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, perfect for vibrant side pairings.

# 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 Make It:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
02 - Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly 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 from heat and let the 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 combined.
06 - Serve warm alongside tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It comes together in under thirty minutes and tastes like you spent way more effort than you actually did.
  • The bright, herbal flavor lifts everything it sits next to, whether that's a taco, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
  • Once you nail the basic technique, you can riff endlessly without ever making a bad batch.
02 -
  • Don't skip the rinsing step—it's the difference between fluffy rice and rice that clumps together like it's been sitting in a bowl of glue.
  • Add the lime juice and cilantro after the rice is cooked, not before; heat will make the cilantro taste grassy and the lime flavor will fade.
  • If you accidentally overcook it slightly, a little extra butter and lime juice can still save it.
03 -
  • Buy limes that feel heavy for their size—they'll have more juice and better flavor than the lightweight ones.
  • If cilantro tastes soapy to you, mint or parsley work beautifully in its place without changing the essential character of the dish.
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