Cilantro Lime Rice (Print version)

Fluffy rice seasoned with fresh cilantro and lime zest for a zesty, aromatic side dish.

# What You Need:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings

05 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 - Zest of 1 lime
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
08 - 1 clove garlic, minced

# How to Make:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
02 - In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains evenly with oil.
04 - Pour in the water and add the salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
05 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow moisture to redistribute.
06 - Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro until combined.
07 - Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed. Serve warm.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • The lime wakes up everything on your plate, turning ordinary rice into something people actually notice
  • It comes together in 30 minutes but tastes like you put in way more effort
02 -
  • Resist lifting the lid while the rice simmers, released steam ruins the cooking process every time
  • Adding cilantro while the rice is still hot helps the herbs wilt slightly and release more oils
03 -
  • Zest your lime before cutting it, otherwise you lose the best part
  • Toast cumin with the garlic if you want deeper earthy notes
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