This lime cilantro rice is a vibrant and zesty side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. The combination of fresh lime juice and fragrant cilantro brings a refreshing twist to the classic white rice. It's an easy-to-make recipe that will elevate your meal with minimal effort.
If you don't usually have cilantro in your kitchen, you might need to pick some up at the supermarket. Fresh cilantro is essential for this recipe, as it adds a unique flavor that dried herbs can't replicate. Additionally, make sure to grab a fresh lime for the juice, as bottled lime juice won't provide the same fresh taste.

Ingredients for Lime Cilantro Rice
White rice: The base of the dish, providing a neutral canvas for the other flavors.
Water: Used to cook the rice, ensuring it becomes tender and fluffy.
Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps to coat the rice grains.
Lime: Provides a fresh, tangy flavor that brightens up the dish.
Cilantro: Adds a burst of herbal freshness and a pop of color.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rice.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To enhance the flavor of your rice, consider toasting it in the olive oil for a few minutes before adding the water. This will give the rice a nutty aroma and a richer taste. Additionally, make sure to use freshly squeezed lime juice for a more vibrant and authentic citrus flavor.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
white rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it requires a longer cooking time.
white rice - Substitute with cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a similar texture with fewer calories.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a richer flavor to the rice.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a vegetarian option, adding depth to the flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil imparts a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the lime and cilantro.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a versatile substitute.
lime, juiced - Substitute with lemon, juiced: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and brightness to the dish.
lime, juiced - Substitute with vinegar: A splash of vinegar can mimic the acidity of lime juice, though it lacks the citrus flavor.
cilantro, chopped - Substitute with parsley, chopped: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor as a milder alternative to cilantro.
cilantro, chopped - Substitute with mint, chopped: Mint adds a refreshing twist, though it has a more pronounced flavor than cilantro.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness, though it will darken the color of the rice.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a more complex flavor profile compared to regular table salt.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How to Store / Freeze This Dish
- Allow the lime cilantro rice to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the rice soggy.
- Transfer the cooled rice to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.
- Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the rice within 3-4 days. This keeps the cilantro and lime juice flavors vibrant.
- For longer storage, place the rice in a freezer-safe bag or container. Flatten the rice in the bag to allow for even freezing and easier thawing.
- Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of its freshness. Frozen lime cilantro rice can be stored for up to 2 months.
- When ready to use, thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
- Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or a bit more olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
- Stir the rice occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming and to redistribute the cilantro and lime juice flavors.
- For an extra burst of freshness, consider adding a bit more freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Stovetop Method:
- Place the leftover lime cilantro rice in a non-stick skillet.
- Add a splash of water or broth to moisten the rice.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and heat over medium-low heat.
- Stir occasionally until the rice is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add a bit more lime juice and fresh cilantro if desired to refresh the flavors.
Microwave Method:
- Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice to add moisture.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Spread the leftover rice in an oven-safe dish.
- Add a few tablespoons of water or broth and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
- Fluff with a fork and add a squeeze of lime and some fresh cilantro before serving.
Steamer Method:
- Place the rice in a heatproof bowl that fits inside your steamer.
- Add a small amount of water to the rice.
- Steam over boiling water for about 5-10 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
- Stir in additional lime juice and cilantro if desired for a fresh burst of flavor.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Saucepan: Used to cook the rice by boiling water and simmering the rice until tender.
Lid: Covers the saucepan to trap steam and ensure even cooking of the rice.
Measuring cup: Measures the precise amount of rice and water needed for the recipe.
Strainer: Rinses the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
Fork: Fluffs the rice after cooking to separate the grains.
Knife: Chops the cilantro finely for mixing into the rice.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to chop the cilantro.
Juicer: Extracts juice from the lime efficiently.
Mixing spoon: Stirs in the olive oil, lime juice, and chopped cilantro into the rice.
Measuring spoons: Measures the exact amount of salt and olive oil needed.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Rinse efficiently: Use a fine-mesh strainer to quickly rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear.
Boil water first: Start boiling the water while you rinse the rice to save time.
Prep ingredients ahead: Juice the lime and chop the cilantro while the rice cooks.
Use a rice cooker: If you have a rice cooker, use it to cook the rice perfectly without needing to watch it.
Quick fluff: After cooking, let the rice sit covered for just 2-3 minutes instead of 5, then fluff and mix in the other ingredients.

Lime Cilantro Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- 1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- 2. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice and salt, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- 3. Remove the saucepan from heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- 4. Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the olive oil, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
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