If you’ve ever had cilantro lime rice at your favorite Mexican restaurant or alongside a delicious grilled dish, you know it’s a very comforting dish!
This simple yet flavorful side dish has become one of my all-time favorites, and once you try it, I’m sure it’ll earn a permanent spot in your cooking rotation.
It’s so much more than just rice—it’s a burst of fresh, zesty flavor that complements everything from tacos to grilled chicken or shrimp.
The combination of fresh cilantro, tangy lime, and a hint of garlic instantly elevated the dish, and since then, I’ve been perfecting my own version.
The rice itself is tender and fluffy, with just enough citrus and cilantro to make each bite pop. Plus, it’s so easy to make!
In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish that will impress your guests or simply make your weeknight dinners feel extra special.
Let’s dive in!
Flavorful Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Course: Lunch, DinnerDifficulty: Easy2
servings10
minutes20
minutes30
minutesIngredients
1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice for extra fragrance)
2 cups water or chicken broth (for added flavor)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 lime (zested and juiced)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cook the Rice: Begin by rinsing your rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium-sized pot, combine the rice and water (or chicken broth). Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water has been absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to steam.
- Sauté the Garlic: While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This will release the oils from the garlic and give the rice an extra depth of flavor.
- Fluff and Flavor: After the rice has steamed, use a fork to fluff it up. Then, add the sautéed garlic, lime zest, and lime juice to the rice. Stir well to combine and evenly distribute the flavors.
- Add the Cilantro: Lastly, fold in the fresh cilantro, making sure it’s evenly mixed into the rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little more zest, you can always add an extra squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your cilantro lime rice is now ready to serve! It pairs wonderfully with anything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables or even as part of a taco salad. This rice is the perfect side to balance out spicy dishes, add brightness to rich meals, or just bring a little bit of joy to a simple weeknight dinner.
- This is one of the best meals for 2 and it comes together in 30 minutes so you don’t have to slave away in the kitchen!
I love having this cilantro lime rice on hand as an easy side dish that packs a punch of flavor.
It’s the kind of recipe that can turn a simple meal into something memorable with minimal effort.
Whether you’re serving it with a delicious Mexican-inspired feast or just adding it to a grilled chicken dinner, it’s sure to bring that extra “wow” factor.
Trust me, you’ll be making this rice over and over again!
