Cilantro lime rice is a delightful side dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This easy-to-make recipe combines fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and zesty lime, creating a refreshing accompaniment for various meals. Whether you’re serving it with tacos, grilled chicken, or as part of a vegetarian feast, cilantro lime rice is sure to make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to create this delicious dish!
Ingredients
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 lime (juiced and zested)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while the cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): Approximately 200 calories, 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, 4g fat, and 2g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water (or broth).
3. Add salt, garlic powder, and black pepper to the saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
6. Simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
7. Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and add olive oil, lime juice, and lime zest.
9. Stir in the chopped cilantro until well combined.
10. Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite entree.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute long-grain rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. If you’re short on cilantro, parsley can be a suitable alternative, albeit with a different flavor profile. Lime juice can also be replaced with lemon juice for a similar zest.
Serving and Pairings
Cilantro lime rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or black beans. It also complements any Mexican or Tex-Mex meal, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cilantro lime rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it in short intervals, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. This dish can be frozen for up to a month; just thaw and reheat as needed.
Cooking Mistakes
– Not rinsing the rice can lead to a gummy texture.
– Overcooking the rice may result in mushiness.
– Not letting the rice rest after cooking can affect the fluffiness.
– Skipping the lime zest will reduce the flavor intensity.
– Using too much water can make the rice soggy.
– Forgetting to fluff the rice can lead to clumping.
– Not adjusting salt to taste can leave the dish bland.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of cilantro based on personal preference.
– For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños.
– Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for variety.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware it will require a longer cooking time and more water.
Is cilantro lime rice gluten-free?
Absolutely! This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make it vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it uses vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice in advance and store it in the refrigerator, reheating it before serving.
What other dishes can I serve with cilantro lime rice?
It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, enchiladas, or even as a base for burrito bowls.
Conclusion
Cilantro lime rice is not only simple to prepare but also adds a vibrant touch to any meal. Its refreshing flavors and versatility make it a must-have side dish. Try it alongside your favorite entrees, and enjoy the delightful combination of cilantro and lime that brightens every bite.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 lime juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water (or broth), add salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
- Simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and add olive oil, lime juice, and lime zest.
- Stir in the chopped cilantro until well combined.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
