
Cilantro Lime Rice
Bright, zesty, and fluffy — this cilantro lime rice is the perfect gluten-free side dish that pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled chicken, burrito bowls, and more. Inspired by the beloved Chipotle-style rice, it's made with simple pantry staples and comes together in under 30 minutes.
4 servings · Prep 5 min · Cook 20 min · Total 25 min
Mexican · Side Dish
Ingredients
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1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed under cold water until water runs clear
1.75 cup water
1 tbsp olive oil
0.5 tsp salt
2 whole limes 1 juiced for serving
zested, 1 cut into wedges for serving
0.5 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped, stems and leaves
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 clove garlic minced
0.25 tsp lime zest from the zested lime above
Equipment
Stovetop
Saucepan
Pot
Fork
Lid
Serving Spoon
Knife
Cutting Board
Saucepan (1 Quart)
Dipping Fork
Citrus Juicer
Colander
Sieve
Instructions
- Rinse the @[Long-Grain White Rice] in a fine mesh strainer under ^[cold running water] for ~[about 30 seconds], until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy rather than sticky.
- In a #[Saucepan], combine the rinsed @[Long-Grain White Rice], @[Water], @[Olive Oil], and @[Salt]. Bring to a boil over ^[medium-high heat], then reduce the heat to ^[low], cover tightly with a #[Lid], and simmer for ~[15 minutes]. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
- Remove the #[Saucepan] from heat and let the @[Rice] steam, still covered, for ~[5 minutes]. This allows the rice to finish cooking gently and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Uncover and fluff the @[Rice] with a fork. Add the @[Butter], minced @[Garlic] (if using), fresh @[Lime] juice, and @[Lime Zest]. Stir gently to combine and let the butter melt into the warm rice.
- Fold in the chopped @[Cilantro]. Taste and adjust @[Salt] or @[Lime] juice as needed. Serve immediately with @[Lime] wedges on the side.





