Becca’s Too-Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Introduction

Cilantro Lime Rice is a dish that immediately transports me to warm, sunny days and vibrant flavors. The combination of fresh cilantro and zesty lime is simply irresistible. Today, I’m excited to share with you an easy cilantro lime rice recipe that’s not only delicious but also incredibly quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful side dish ready in no time.

This recipe is perfect for those looking for a hassle-free and tasty addition to their meals. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

So, let’s dive into the world of cilantro lime rice and explore what makes this recipe so special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the burst of freshness it brings to the table. The cilantro adds a cool, herbal flavor, while the lime juice provides a nice acidity, making each bite a delight. The “too-easy” aspect of this recipe is a major draw, as it requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it accessible to everyone.

The combination of these fresh ingredients creates a dish that’s not only flavorful but also light and refreshing. It’s perfect for accompanying a variety of meals, from grilled meats to vegetarian dishes.

So, what makes this recipe truly special? It’s the perfect blend of ease, flavor, and freshness that will make you come back for more.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

When it comes to the ingredients, you can make a few substitutions if needed. For instance, you can use lemon juice instead of lime juice, although it will give a slightly different flavor profile. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can try using parsley or basil, but keep in mind that the flavor will be distinctly different.

Using brown rice instead of white rice is also an option, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio accordingly. Brown rice generally requires more water and a longer cooking time to achieve the perfect texture.

For those looking to reduce oil intake, you can try using coconut oil or avocado oil as a substitute for olive oil. These oils have a higher smoke point and can add a unique flavor to your dish.

Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need a few basic pieces of equipment:

• Medium saucepan
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
3. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add rice to the saucepan and cook until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
7. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Serve hot.

Visual Guide & Tips

As you cook, keep an eye on the rice as it toasts, and make sure to stir it frequently to prevent burning. Once you add the water, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. This will help the rice cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.

When fluffing the rice with a fork, be gentle to avoid breaking the grains. This will help maintain the perfect texture and make the dish more visually appealing.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

To achieve the perfect cilantro lime rice, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. First, make sure not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy and unappetizing. Second, don’t overmix the rice after adding the cilantro and lime juice, as this can cause the flavors to become unevenly distributed.

If you find that your rice is too dry, you can try adding a bit more water or lime juice to give it a boost of moisture. On the other hand, if the rice is too wet, you can try cooking it for a few more minutes to absorb the excess water.

Some other tips to keep in mind include using fresh cilantro for the best flavor and adjusting the amount of lime juice to your taste. You can also add some grated ginger or minced garlic to give the dish an extra layer of flavor.

Storage & Freezing

To store your cilantro lime rice, you can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat it, simply microwave it for a few minutes or heat it up in a saucepan with a bit of water.

If you want to freeze the rice, it’s best to do so before adding the cilantro and lime juice. Simply cook the rice, let it cool, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the rice and add the cilantro and lime juice as instructed in the recipe.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Per serving, this recipe contains:

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 38g
• Fat: 4g
• Sugar: 0g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about the recipe:

• Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
  • A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio accordingly. According to USDA cooking guidelines, brown rice typically requires different preparation methods than white rice.
• Q: Can I substitute lime juice with lemon juice?
  • A: Yes, you can use lemon juice, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. Lime juice contains significant vitamin C content according to USDA nutritional data.
• Q: How long can I store the cooked rice in the refrigerator?
  • A: You can store the cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Q: Can I freeze the cooked rice?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked rice, but it’s best to do so before adding the cilantro and lime juice.
• Q: Can I add other ingredients to the rice for extra flavor?
  • A: Yes, you can add other ingredients such as grated ginger, minced garlic, or diced vegetables to give the dish an extra layer of flavor.
• Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
  • A: Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as it does not contain any animal products.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this easy cilantro lime rice recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and delicious side dish. With its simplicity, freshness, and flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, go ahead and give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media!

Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes! I’d love to see your creations and hear about your experiences with this recipe.

Becca’s Too-Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

A simple and flavorful rice dish with cilantro and lime

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear.
3. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add rice to the saucepan and cook until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
7. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
8. Season with salt to taste.
9. Serve hot.