Fluffy Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice is fluffy white rice tossed with fresh lime juice, zest and chopped cilantro. It is bright, fresh and easy, and it goes with burritos, tacos, bowls, grilled chicken and fish.
- 30 minTotal time
- 6Servings
- 240kcal / serving
- 4 gProtein
The herbs and lime go in after cooking, so their flavor stays fresh and the rice stays light instead of heavy or sticky.
The science: why this works
- Rinsing removes extra surface starch, so the grains cook separately instead of clumping.
- Toasting the rice briefly in oil coats the grains and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- A 1 to 1.5 ratio of rice to water is right for rinsed long-grain rice cooked by absorption.
- Resting off the heat for 10 minutes lets steam equalize, so the rice is evenly cooked and fluffy.
- Adding lime and cilantro at the end keeps their delicate aroma, which cooking would destroy.
Why fresh herbs go in last
Cilantro and lime zest get their aroma from volatile oils that evaporate with heat. Stirring them in after the rice is cooked keeps those oils in the dish. Citrus juice added at the end also tastes sharper, brightening the mild rice.
Learn: Finish with fresh herbs →Acid wakes up plain foods
Plain rice tastes mild, so a small amount of lime juice stands out. Acid balances salt and makes flavors seem more distinct, which is why lime makes this rice taste more seasoned without more salt.
Learn: Add acid at the end →Fluffy Cilantro Lime Rice
30 min · 6 servings · Mexican · Side dish
Ingredients
Makes 6 servings
Method
Tips for the best result
- Fluff the rice before adding lime juice, or the grains can break and turn mushy.
- Chop cilantro finely, including the tender stems, for even flavor.
- Add the lime a little at a time, since limes vary in juiciness.
Mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the rinse, which makes the rice sticky, so rinse until the water is mostly clear.
- Peeking while it cooks, which lets steam escape, so keep the lid on.
- Adding lime juice before cooking, which can slow the rice softening and dulls the flavor, so add it at the end.
Variations and swaps
- Stir in 1 tbsp of butter at the end for richer, Chipotle-style rice.
- Add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of cumin for more flavor.
- Mix in black beans and corn to make it a meal.
- Swap long-grain white rice for jasmine rice, which is more fragrant.
- Swap water for chicken or vegetable broth for more savory flavor.
- Swap cilantro for parsley or mint if you do not like cilantro.
Storing and reheating
Cool leftover rice quickly and refrigerate within 2 hours. Eat within 3 days and reheat to 165°F (74°C) with a splash of water, covered, until steaming hot. It also freezes for 2 months.
Fluffy Cilantro Lime Rice: questions
How do I make cilantro lime rice fluffy?
Rinse the rice, use the right amount of water, keep the lid on, and let it rest 10 minutes off the heat. Fluff gently with a fork before adding the lime and cilantro.
What kind of rice is best for cilantro lime rice?
Long-grain white rice such as jasmine or basmati is best because the grains stay separate. Short-grain rice turns sticky.
Can I make cilantro lime rice in a rice cooker?
Yes. Cook the rinsed rice with the water, salt and bay leaf as usual, then stir in the lime juice, zest and cilantro once it is done.
How long does cilantro lime rice last?
It keeps 3 to 4 days in the fridge in a sealed container, and it freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat until steaming hot.
Why does my cilantro lime rice taste bland?
It may need more salt or lime juice. Season at the end with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime, tasting as you go, until the flavors pop.
