Cilantro lime rice has that magic combo of fluffy texture, citrus brightness, and a touch of herbaceous flavor that turns even plain rice into something you can’t stop eating. And the best part? You can easily make it at home — with fresher flavor and way fewer additives.
This recipe is light, flavorful, and goes with just about everything. Serve it with tacos, grilled veggies, chicken, tofu, or even spoon it into burrito bowls all week.
It’s a staple that brings brightness to any meal, and it takes no more effort than regular rice. Once you try it, you might never go back to plain white rice again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup long grain white rice (jasmine or basmati both work well)
- 2 cups water or low-sodium broth
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive or avocado oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Let’s Talk Rice First
Not all rice is created equal when it comes to texture. For this recipe, long grain white rice works best because it stays fluffy and separate. Basmati or jasmine rice are both excellent options — they absorb flavor well and have a light, pleasant aroma.
Make sure to rinse the rice under cold water before cooking. This step removes excess starch and helps keep the grains from turning gummy. Just place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse until the water runs mostly clear.
Cooking the Rice to Perfection
In a medium saucepan, heat your oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring often, to lightly toast the rice. This adds subtle nuttiness and keeps the rice fluffy.
Next, add the water or broth and salt. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15–18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes. This step is crucial for steam to finish cooking the rice and to loosen it up before fluffing. Resist the urge to peek — steam is your friend here.
Time for the Flavor Boost
After resting, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Then stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Start with half the lime juice and taste as you go — some limes are more potent than others.
Want it even brighter? Add an extra squeeze of lime just before serving. You can also drizzle in a little olive oil for extra richness or toss in a pinch of garlic powder or minced green onion if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Serve It
This rice is incredibly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Tucked into a burrito with beans, grilled peppers, and avocado
- As the base of a burrito bowl with roasted veggies and protein
- Alongside grilled chicken or steak with a sprinkle of cotija cheese
- With tacos or fajitas for a flavorful side
- As a bed for saucy curries or chili-lime shrimp
You can even use leftovers to make a quick fried rice the next day — just toss it in a pan with a beaten egg and a splash of soy sauce.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Cilantro lime rice keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over it and microwave covered, or warm it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water.
You can also freeze it in portions for quick meals later. Lay the rice flat in a freezer bag to save space, then reheat straight from frozen in a covered skillet with a few tablespoons of water.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is already pretty simple, but there are a few easy ways to customize it:
- Use brown rice: Just increase the cook time and add more liquid. Brown rice gives a chewier bite and added fiber.
- Add heat: Toss in a chopped jalapeño or serrano with the lime juice for a spicy twist.
- Boost the citrus: Use a mix of lime and lemon juice for a more complex flavor.
- Try different herbs: If cilantro isn’t your thing, swap in flat-leaf parsley or a little mint.
Why You’ll Keep Making This
Cilantro lime rice is one of those quietly perfect side dishes that doesn’t steal the spotlight — but makes everything else taste better. It’s light, fresh, and easy, and it adds that pop of acidity and color that rounds out any meal.
Once you’ve made it once, it becomes second nature. And honestly, it tastes even better than the restaurant version. It’s proof that with just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can elevate something as humble as rice into a dish you actually crave.
Meta Description: This easy cilantro lime rice is fresh, fluffy, and bursting with citrusy flavor — perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, and everything in between.
