Ah, cilantro lime rice—it’s like a zesty little dance party in your mouth! This recipe, which I stumbled upon during a weekend cooking spree, is so fresh and vibrant that it makes plain rice feel like a forgotten relic. Whether you’re whipping it up for a taco night or just craving something bright and tangy, this dish promises to be your new favorite sidekick in the kitchen—trust me, it’s ridiculously refreshing.
Steps
- Rinse one cup of long-grain jasmine rice thoroughly and drain. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, 1½ cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Bring the mixture to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked, uncover it and fluff with a fork. While the rice is still warm, mix in finely minced garlic, chopped scallions, and lime zest to enhance the flavor.
- Allow the rice to cool slightly, then add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, lime juice, sea salt, and finely chopped cilantro. If desired, include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for added heat. Mix well and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
- 1½ cups water
- 3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 scallions, chopped finely
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped finely
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or ¼ diced jalapeño (optional)
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
- Absolutely! While jasmine or basmati rice is recommended for their fragrant qualities, you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Just remember to adjust the water to 2 cups and extend the cooking time as needed. Alternatively, you can mix in cauliflower rice or broccoli rice for a lighter option.
- How should I store leftovers of cilantro lime rice?
- Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can enjoy the rice cold, at room temperature, or reheat it in the microwave.
- What are some serving suggestions for cilantro lime rice?
- Cilantro lime rice pairs well with both Asian and Mexican-inspired dishes. It’s great with crispy sesame tofu, enchiladas, or as part of a taco bar. It also makes an excellent base for burrito bowls or even sushi bowls.
- What is the best way to prepare the rice to ensure it’s not sticky?
- To prevent stickiness, rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This step helps ensure the rice remains fluffy, which is ideal for this recipe.
- Can I make this dish spicier?
- Yes, you can adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or including diced jalapeño. Feel free to increase the amount if you prefer a spicier dish.
Tips
- Rinse the rice before cooking to eliminate excess starch, which helps ensure the rice turns out fluffy rather than sticky.
- Add garlic, scallions, and lime zest to the rice while it’s still warm to allow the flavors to infuse effectively.
- Wait until the rice has cooled slightly before mixing in cilantro and jalapeño to prevent them from wilting and losing their freshness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, and enjoy them cold, at room temperature, or reheated in the microwave.
Equipment
- Rice cooker or Instant Pot (if you prefer not to cook rice on the stove)
- Zester (for lime zest)
- Airtight storage containers (for storing leftovers)
