Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice is a bright and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, or as a refreshing bed for bowls. The zesty lime and fresh cilantro elevate simple rice to a delightful accompaniment that everyone will love. This recipe is not only easy to make but also adds a burst of color and taste to your table. Let’s dive into how to whip up this delicious side dish!
Ingredients
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 lime (juiced and zested)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: additional lime wedges for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 5 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the total recipe): approximately 190 calories, 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, 3g fat. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the boiling broth.
4. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender.
6. Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
8. In a small bowl, mix lime juice and zest with olive oil.
9. Pour the lime mixture over the rice and stir gently to combine.
10. Fold in the chopped cilantro for added freshness.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier option, though cooking times may vary. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be used as an alternative herb.
Serving and Pairings
Cilantro lime rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp tacos, or as a bed for burrito bowls. It also complements spicy dishes and brings a refreshing contrast to rich flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or warm in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not rinsing the rice can make it sticky.
- Overcooking the rice will result in mushiness.
- Skipping the resting time after cooking can affect texture.
- Forgetting to fluff the rice can make it clump together.
- Using too much lime juice can overpower the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- To enhance flavor, sauté rice in olive oil before adding broth.
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mix in black beans for added protein and texture.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges before serving.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, brown rice can be used, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid.
How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers or corn can be mixed in for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I adjust the flavor?
Adjust the lime juice and cilantro according to your taste preferences; more lime for tanginess, less for a milder flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, cilantro lime rice is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Cilantro lime rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that enhances any meal. Its bright flavors and aromatic herbs make it a favorite for gatherings and everyday dinners alike. Try this recipe today and bring a fresh twist to your table!
Cilantro Lime Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lime juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: additional lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice to the boiling broth.
- Stir in the salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- In a small bowl, mix lime juice and zest with olive oil.
- Pour the lime mixture over the rice and stir gently to combine.
- Fold in the chopped cilantro for added freshness.
