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Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Fluffy Stovetop
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is a vibrant and zesty stovetop side dish, perfect for busy weeknights or elevating any family dinner with its fresh aroma and fluffy texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (like Basmati or Jasmine)
- 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp fresh lime zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp oil or butter (olive oil works great for a dairy-free option)
- 1.5 cups water or broth
- 0.5 tsp salt
Instructions
- Rinse Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cool running water in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs completely clear; this step is crucial for preventing stickiness.
- Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan or 2-quart pot, heat the oil or butter over medium heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but not browned.
- Toast Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until the grains are lightly toasted and opaque. This slightly nutty aroma indicates they are ready.
- Simmer Rice: Pour in the water and salt, bring it to a rolling boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to very low. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and simmer gently for 15-18 minutes without peeking.
- Rest Rice: Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 10 minutes. This resting period is absolutely key for allowing the steam to distribute evenly, creating truly fluffy stovetop rice.
- Fluff and Serve: Uncover, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains, then stir in the fresh chopped cilantro and lime juice. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
Ensure rice is thoroughly rinsed to prevent stickiness. Use a heavy-bottomed pot and very low heat during simmering to avoid burning. The 10-minute resting period off the heat is crucial for fluffy rice. For extra flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water. For a vegan option, use vegetable broth and olive oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup (120 g)
- Calories: 120 calories
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 65 mg
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: cilantro lime rice, stovetop, fluffy rice, side dish, easy recipe, weeknight meal, fresh flavor, vegetarian, gluten-free
