Cilantro Lime Rice (Print version)

Fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and zesty lime—ready in 30 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Rice Base

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, such as 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, approximately 1 lime
08 - 1 clove garlic, minced

# Directions:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch for fluffier results.
02 - Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring constantly to coat each grain with oil and lightly toast.
04 - Pour in water and add salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
05 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow moisture to redistribute evenly.
06 - Fluff rice with a fork. Gently fold in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro until evenly distributed.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice as desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite dishes.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The lime and cilantro combination wakes up even the most basic weeknight meals
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like it came from a restaurant
  • You can make it ahead and the flavors actually get better as they sit
02 -
  • Never skip the rinsing step or your rice will turn into a sticky mess despite your best efforts
  • Letting the rice rest off the heat is crucial for that perfect fluffy texture everyone wants
03 -
  • Zest your lime before juicing it, otherwise the fruit becomes too soft to grate properly
  • Chop the cilantro right before adding it so it does not oxidize and lose its bright color
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