🌿 Cilantro Lime Rice

This Cilantro Lime Rice is light, zesty, and packed with fresh flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for your favorite Mexican meals—think burrito bowls, tacos, grilled meats, or even a quick rice salad base. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

🛒 Ingredients

US Customary

2 cups water
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup long grain white rice
1 teaspoon lime zest
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 cup of rice.
Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.

2. Fluff & Flavor

Remove the pan from the heat.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork.

3. Add Fresh Ingredients

Stir in:

1 teaspoon lime zest
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
½ cup chopped cilantro

Mix well to evenly distribute the flavor.

✅ Pro Tips

Use a fork to fluff the rice for a light, fluffy texture.
Don’t skip the zest—it gives a bright citrus aroma that juice alone can’t match.
For extra richness, swap butter with a bit of olive oil or ghee.

🔁 Variations

Brown Rice Version: Increase cooking time to 40–45 minutes.
Add-ins: Mix in some chopped scallions, jalapeños, or a pinch of cumin for a flavor boost.
Make It Vegan: Use plant-based butter or oil instead.

🌮 Perfect Pairings

Chicken or shrimp tacos
Burrito bowls
Carne asada or grilled vegetables
Black beans and pico de gallo