Cilantro Lime Rice Delight (Print Version)

Bright and fragrant rice infused with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and butter for a flavorful side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings

05 - 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (approximately 1 lime)
07 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for finishing)

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
02 - Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the rice, 1 tablespoon butter, and salt.
03 - Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
04 - Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
05 - Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest.
06 - For added richness, fold in an additional tablespoon of butter if desired.
07 - Serve the rice warm as a side dish with Mexican or grilled foods.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It transforms basic rice into something vibrant enough to stand alone, yet humble enough to play nicely with almost anything on your plate.
  • The prep is genuinely easy—no fancy techniques, just fresh flavors that come together while your kitchen smells incredible.
  • It tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
02 -
  • Don't skip the resting step—it's the difference between fluffy, distinct grains and a mushy, compacted mass.
  • Add the cilantro and lime after cooking, not before; heat wilts cilantro into invisible flecks and can make lime juice taste slightly bitter.
03 -
  • Keep fresh limes on hand during summer and freeze the zest in ice cube trays so you have bright, grassy citrus flavor even in winter.
  • The second tablespoon of butter is what separates everyday rice from restaurant-quality rice—don't skip it if you're serving guests.
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