Description
Cilantro-lime infused rice brings zesty Mexican-inspired flavors to any meal. Quick and simple ingredients combine for a refreshing side dish that elevates your dining experience with bright, herbal notes and citrusy brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 bay leaf
Liquids and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat, creating a shimmering base for the rice.
- Add rice and salt, toasting the grains while stirring continuously to develop a nutty aroma and prevent sticking.
- Pour in water, incorporating lime zest and bay leaf to infuse the rice with bright, aromatic flavors.
- Bring the liquid to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat to low and cover the pot tightly.
- Allow rice to simmer gently, absorbing the liquid and becoming tender, which typically takes around 15 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes to ensure perfect texture.
- While rice rests, create a vibrant cilantro-lime sauce by blending fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, remaining olive oil, and water until smooth and well-integrated.
- Discard the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork, creating light, separated grains.
- Gently fold the cilantro-lime mixture into the rice, ensuring even distribution of the fresh, zesty flavors.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the rice at its peak temperature and flavor intensity.
Notes
- Cilantro and lime dance together, creating a bright, refreshing profile that complements countless main courses.
- Perfectly tender rice infused with citrusy and herbaceous notes will make your taste buds sing with every forkful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg