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Easy Cilantro Lime Rice For One


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A quick and bright side dish that balances acidity from lime with herbaceous cilantro, perfect for pairing with grilled fish or as a base for burrito bowls.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine preferred)
  • 1 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or olive oil
  • Zest and juice of 1 small lime (about 1–2 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Combine rinsed rice and water (or broth) in a small saucepan. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  4. After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 more minutes.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in the butter or oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic (if using), cumin (if using), and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Use brown rice for more fiber, keeping in mind it requires more water and a longer cooking time. Make it dairy-free by substituting butter with olive oil.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, easy rice recipe, side dish, quick recipe