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Easy Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Perfect for Quick Healthy Meals

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A quick and flavorful cilantro lime rice side dish that is fresh, zesty, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe features toasted rice with garlic, fresh lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro for a bright and satisfying flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 200 grams)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (480 ml)
  • Juice of 2 medium limes (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (about 15 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • Pinch of black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
  2. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and minced garlic. Stir frequently for 3-4 minutes until the rice is lightly golden and fragrant.
  3. Add water or chicken broth, salt, and black pepper if using. Stir once and bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or lime juice if needed. Serve warm.

Notes

If rice turns out sticky, reduce water by 1-2 tablespoons next time. Freshly squeeze lime juice just before serving to keep flavor lively. For a spicy variation, add minced jalapeño or cayenne pepper when toasting rice. Use fresh cilantro for best flavor; dried cilantro is not recommended. For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower rice and cook lightly before mixing in lime and cilantro.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, easy rice recipe, zesty rice, quick side dish, healthy rice, gluten-free, vegan, lime rice, cilantro rice

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/easy-zesty-cilantro-lime-rice-recipe-perfect-for-quick-healthy-meals/