Cilantro Lime Rice (Printable Version)

Fluffy rice infused with fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice, ready in 30 minutes.

# Components:

→ Rice Base

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 (approximately 1 lime)
08 - 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

# Method Steps:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear, removing excess starch for fluffy results.
02 - Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic if using 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 for 1-2 minutes.
04 - Pour in water and add salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
05 - Remove saucepan from heat and keep covered. Let stand 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. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice as desired. Serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It turns ordinary rice into something people will actually ask you about
  • The lime brightens everything while cilantro adds that fresh kick that makes you feel like you ordered takeout
02 -
  • The resting period after cooking is non negotiable, if you skip it your rice will be sticky instead of fluffy
  • Wait until the very end to add the cilantro or it will turn brown and sad from the heat
03 -
  • If you meal prep, store the lime juice separately and add it right before serving so the rice stays bright green
  • A microplane makes the best lime zest, just be careful to only get the green part and not the bitter white pith underneath
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