Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice is a bright and zesty side dish that pairs perfectly with Mexican and Southwestern meals. It’s fragrant, flavorful, and easy to make in just 20 minutes, bringing fresh lime and cilantro to tender, fluffy rice.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
• 2 cups water or broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 lime (juiced and zested)
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear to remove excess starch.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water or broth, neutral oil, and salt.
3. Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for several minutes to finish steaming.
5. Step 5: Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
6. Step 6: Carefully fold in the lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until evenly combined.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice if desired. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño when mixing in the cilantro and lime.
• Chop the cilantro finely to distribute its flavor evenly throughout the rice.
• Make sure to let the rice rest covered after cooking to achieve fluffy, tender grains.

Storage

Store leftover cilantro lime rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the rice fluffy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid. Adjust accordingly and cook until tender before adding lime and cilantro.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh cilantro?

If fresh cilantro is unavailable, you can use a small amount of dried cilantro, though the flavor won’t be as bright. Alternatively, consider adding fresh parsley for a different but still fresh herb note.

Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

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4.4 from 88 reviews

This Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice recipe delivers a refreshing and zesty side dish that perfectly complements Mexican-inspired meals. Featuring long-grain white rice cooked to fluffy perfection, then gently tossed with lime juice, zest, and fresh cilantro for a vibrant, tangy flavor and aromatic finish. It’s a quick and simple recipe ideal for adding a burst of freshness to your dinner table.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice and Cooking Liquid

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
• 2 cups water or low sodium broth
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

Flavorings

• 1 lime (juiced and zested)
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water or broth, neutral oil, and salt.
3. Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer gently until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
4. Rest the Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat and leave it covered for several minutes to allow the rice to steam and settle for fluffier texture.
5. Fluff the Rice: Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains.
6. Add Lime and Cilantro: Gently fold in the lime juice, lime zest, and finely chopped fresh cilantro to infuse fresh, zesty flavors evenly.
7. Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve the cilantro lime rice warm as a vibrant side dish.

Notes

• Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, ensuring fluffier rice without clumping.
• Using broth instead of water can add extra depth of flavor.
• For a stronger lime flavor, add additional lime zest or juice to taste.
• This rice pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, tacos, or Mexican-style bowls.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of water.

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, copycat recipe, Mexican rice, side dish, lime rice, cilantro rice