Ever stumble upon a side dish that just steals the spotlight? That’s how I feel about cilantro lime rice. It’s like a zesty symphony of flavors, dancing on your taste buds, taking you on a mini-vacation to a tropical paradise.
I tried it first at a family cookout last summer—oh, the aroma! It’s the kind of thing that makes you wonder why plain rice ever existed.
Steps
- Combine rinsed jasmine rice, water, and a teaspoon of olive oil in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Mix in minced garlic, chopped scallions, and lime zest while the rice is still warm.
- Allow the rice to cool slightly, then incorporate the remaining olive oil, sea salt, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for extra heat if desired.
- Mix everything thoroughly and adjust the seasoning to your liking before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
- 1½ cups water
- 3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or ¼ diced jalapeño (optional)
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute jasmine or basmati rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Both long and short-grain brown rice work well. However, you will need to adjust the water to 2 cups. Alternatively, you can use a mix of regular rice and cauliflower or broccoli rice for a lighter variation.
- How should the rice be cooked to prevent it from becoming sticky?
- To avoid sticky rice, rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. This ensures the rice remains fluffy, which is ideal for this recipe.
- What dishes pair well with cilantro lime rice?
- This rice is a versatile side dish that complements both Asian and Mexican-inspired meals. It works well with dishes like crispy sesame tofu, enchiladas, or taquitos. Additionally, it serves as a great base for burrito bowls or even sushi bowls.
- How can I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
- Store any leftover cilantro lime rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. You can enjoy it cold, at room temperature, or reheat it using a microwave.
- Are there any optional ingredients to add extra flavor?
- For additional heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeño. These ingredients can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Before cooking, rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky and ensures a fluffy finished dish.
- Add Flavor While Warm: Mix in the garlic, scallions, and lime zest with the rice while it’s still hot. This allows the rice to absorb more flavor from these ingredients.
- Cool Before Adding Fresh Ingredients: Allow the rice to cool slightly before adding the cilantro and jalapeños. This helps keep these fresh ingredients from wilting or losing their vibrant texture.
- Experiment with Variations: Try using brown rice for a nuttier flavor, or mix in cauliflower rice for a lighter option. These variations can add unique twists to the dish.
Equipment
- Rice cooker or Instant Pot (if you prefer not to cook rice on the stove)
- Zester or Microplane (for zesting the lime)
- Airtight storage containers (for storing leftovers)
