Cilantro Lime Rice

I always make sure I have a few good side dish recipes on hand that are delicious and versatile. This is the beauty of Cilantro Lime Rice. It’s super easy to make and can be paired with a lot of different, delicious meals. It even works well to be packed for lunches at work or school. I like to serve this rice dish on a weeknight with grilled pork or chicken. It also works well in burrito bowls, tacos, or with a baked fish on top. 

The nice thing about rice is that it’s a blank canvas for lots of flavors. It’s really easy to infuse with all sorts of spices and herbs to perfectly compliment any kind of dish. In this case, we add lots of fresh cilantro and lime juice to turn it into a bright, zingy rice that bounces in your mouth. It’s really nice in the spring and summer, I think. I make it a lot when I have fresh cilantro in my herb pot. 

This Cilantro Lime Rice is one of those recipes that you’ll likely memorize. It will be absolutely simple after you’ve made it a few times. Don’t be surprised if you start to get lots of requests to make it. It will definitely become a popular side dish like it is in my house. 

If you need more ideas for side dishes that are grain based be sure to search my website. I love rice salads and use them a lot in big meals and when I’m catering. They can be a really nice change from pasta and are a little light and more flavorful in the warmer months. If you want more ideas on ways you can flavor regular rice please let me know and I’ll record more videos like this one for you. In the meantime, be sure to subscribe to my Youtube channel and print out this recipe to make this week! 

Cilantro Lime Rice 

This is a delicious way to make rice! We love it when we’re making Mexican-style food, or just when we want a little change of pace. 

Ingredients 

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati works best) 

• 2 cups water  

• ½ tsp salt 

• 1 tbsp olive oil 

• 1 lime, juiced 

• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped 

• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional, for extra flavor) 

Instructions 

1. Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, bring water (or broth), salt, and rice to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender. 

2. Fluff & Add Flavor: Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, fluff with a fork and mix in olive oil (or butter), lime juice, cilantro, and minced garlic if using. 

3. Serve: Perfect as a side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or burrito bowls. 

Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.