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Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice

A bright, fluffy, restaurant-style cilantro lime rice bursting with fresh citrus flavor and perfect as a side dish for bowls, tacos, and grilled meats.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Meal Prep, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

Cilantro Lime Rice
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 3 cups water or broth
  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped

Equipment

  • Medium pot with lid
  • Citrus zester
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.
  2. Heat butter or oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
  3. Add rice and stir, toasting for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in water or broth and add salt. Bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes.
  6. Turn off heat and let rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  7. Fluff rice with a fork.
  8. Stir in lime juice, lime zest, and cilantro.
  9. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.

Notes

For extra lime flavor, add an additional teaspoon of zest or splash of juice before serving.