This recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen with minimal effort. It’s the ideal way to upgrade plain rice with just a few ingredients. The balance of citrusy lime, fresh cilantro, and a hint of garlic makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and works with a range of dietary needs — naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Whether you’re meal-prepping or cooking for a crowd, cilantro lime rice is a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Long grain white rice
Fresh cilantro
Fresh lime juice
Garlic (minced or grated)
Olive oil or butter
Salt
Water or vegetable broth
Directions
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
Add water or broth and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice.
Taste and adjust salt or lime juice if needed before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people. Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Brown rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber; increase cooking time to 40-45 minutes.
Lemon twist: Use lemon juice instead of lime for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño during the cooking process.
Butter-rich version: Use butter instead of oil for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
Add veggies: Mix in some corn, black beans, or chopped bell peppers for a more hearty dish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cilantro lime rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and microwave it covered for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. For longer storage, freeze the rice in portioned freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the fridge before warming.
FAQs
What type of rice is best for cilantro lime rice?
Long grain white rice works best for a light, fluffy texture. Basmati or jasmine rice are great alternatives for added aroma.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh lime juice gives a brighter and more vibrant flavor.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, if you use olive oil instead of butter and cook with water or vegetable broth.
Can I make this rice in a rice cooker?
Absolutely. Add all the ingredients (except cilantro and lime juice) to the rice cooker and cook as usual. Stir in cilantro and lime after cooking.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but it requires a longer cooking time (around 40-45 minutes) and more liquid.
How do I prevent the rice from being mushy?
Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, and follow proper water-to-rice ratios.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. It reheats well and can be made a day or two in advance.
What dishes go well with cilantro lime rice?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, tacos, burrito bowls, or beans.
Can I freeze cilantro lime rice?
Yes, let it cool completely, portion it out, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I use dried cilantro?
Fresh cilantro is highly recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried in a pinch—just reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Conclusion
Cilantro Lime Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates any meal with its fresh and tangy profile. It’s easy to make, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it with tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or enjoying it on its own, this rice will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Cilantro Lime Rice is a bright, zesty, and aromatic side dish made with long grain white rice, fresh lime juice, cilantro, and garlic. Perfect for pairing with Mexican and Southwestern meals, it’s easy to prepare, naturally vegan and gluten-free, and full of fresh flavor.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 to 6 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mexican
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
1 cup long grain white rice
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
Add water or broth and salt, then bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice.
Taste and adjust salt or lime juice if needed before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.Rinse rice well to avoid a sticky texture.Butter can be used instead of olive oil for a richer taste.Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 monthsBrown rice can be used with longer cooking time (40-45 minutes).
