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The Best Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

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4.3 from 54 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful cilantro lime rice recipe featuring aromatic jasmine rice cooked in creamy coconut milk, then mixed with fresh lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro for a bright, zesty finish. This versatile side dish pairs perfectly with Mexican, Thai, or Caribbean meals.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons oil (avocado or olive oil recommended)
  • 2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/3 cups water
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full fat coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Zest of one lime
  • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium non-stick saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, add the oil, rinsed jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
  2. Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the saucepan with the lid and reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, following package instructions if necessary.
  3. Fluff and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Allow the rice to cool slightly to let steam escape, which prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with fresh ingredients.
  4. Add Fresh Ingredients: Add the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and lime zest to the warm rice. Use a fork to gently fluff everything together, ensuring the flavors are well incorporated throughout the rice.
  5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the rice and season with additional salt or lime juice if desired. Serve the cilantro lime rice warm as a flavorful side dish with your favorite main course.

Notes

  • Rinsing the jasmine rice before cooking removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
  • Using full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness balancing the zestiness of lime.
  • This rice is great paired with Mexican dishes like tacos and burritos, Thai curries, or Caribbean-style grilled meats.
  • For a lighter version, you can substitute coconut milk with more water or use light coconut milk.
  • Leftover rice can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of water to restore moisture.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free