Cilantro Lime Fluffy Rice (Print Version)

Fluffy white rice brightened with fresh cilantro and lime for a flavorful, easy-to-make side.

# What You'll Need:

→ Rice

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable oil)
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings

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

# How to Make It:

01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
02 - Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly translucent.
03 - Add water and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
04 - Remove from heat and let rice stand covered for 5 minutes.
05 - Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in butter if using, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro until evenly combined.
06 - Serve warm as a side dish alongside tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • It transforms ordinary rice into something that steals the show
  • The lime and cilantro combo makes everything taste restaurant-quality
02 -
  • Sautéing the rice before adding liquid is the secret step most people skip, but it makes such a difference in texture and flavor
  • Letting the rice rest off the heat is non-negotiable, lifting the lid too early makes it gummy and undercooked
03 -
  • Rinsing the rice until the water runs clear removes excess starch, which is the only way to guarantee fluffy, separate grains
  • Zesting the lime before juicing is easier, and those tiny flecks of zest distribute flavor more evenly than juice alone
Go Back