Description
Fresh, zesty, and perfectly fluffy — this cilantro lime rice is an easy and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with burrito bowls, grilled meats, or tacos.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice well under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté: In a 1.5-quart saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat with the butter and garlic. Toast the rice for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden.
- Add Broth & Lime Zest: Stir in the lime zest, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes. Then, turn off the heat and let the rice rest (covered) for an additional 10 minutes.
- Finish & Fluff: Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro until well combined.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Add extra lime juice for more tang, or a pinch of cayenne for subtle heat.
- Great for meal prep — keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Pairs especially well with Mexican, Tex-Mex, or grilled dishes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 143
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 11mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
