Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro Lime Rice

4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain jasmine rice

    rinsed well and drained

  • 1½ cups water
  • 3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove

    finely minced

  • 2 scallions

    finely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • ¼ to ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • Pinch red pepper flakes

    or ¼ diced jalapeño, optional

Directions

  1. 1

    Combine the rice, water, and 1 teaspoon of the olive oil in a medium saucepan with a lid. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to a simmer. Simmer for 20 minutes (or check the time listed on the package of your rice).

  2. 2

    Uncover and fluff with a fork. Add the garlic, scallions, and lime zest and stir to combine. Let cool for 1 minute, then add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, lime juice, cilantro, and red pepper flakes or jalapeño, if using. Stir to combine and season to taste.

Cilantro Lime Rice

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About this Recipe

Looking for a vibrant, flavorful side dish that comes together quickly and elevates any meal? This Cilantro Lime Rice is your answer, transforming simple jasmine rice into a zesty, aromatic accompaniment perfect for everything from tacos to grilled proteins.

The magic of this rice lies in the harmonious blend of fresh, bright ingredients. Zesty lime, aromatic cilantro, and a gentle hint of garlic and scallions work together to infuse the long-grain jasmine rice, creating a side that's anything but basic. It's a testament to how fresh components can truly make a dish sing.

Expect fluffy, separate grains of rice, each permeated with a lively citrus zing and the herbaceous perfume of fresh cilantro. The careful balance of lime juice and zest ensures a bright flavor without being overly tart, while a pinch of sea salt enhances every note. For those who enjoy a little kick, the optional red pepper flakes or a touch of finely diced jalapeño add a subtle warmth that complements the freshness beautifully. This dish is designed to be straightforward and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining.

Customization & Variations

This Cilantro Lime Rice is wonderfully adaptable. For a different heat level, easily adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or jalapeño to your preference, or omit them entirely. While fresh cilantro is central to the dish, you could experiment with a touch of fresh parsley if absolutely necessary, though the signature flavor will shift. If you're short on fresh scallions, a tiny sprinkle of onion powder might offer a subtle background note, but fresh ingredients truly shine here.

Serving & Context

This versatile Cilantro Lime Rice is an excellent partner to tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, flaky white fish, or black beans. It's also a fantastic base for grain bowls, adding a burst of flavor to any build.

Frequently Asked Questions