Basmati Cilantro Lime Rice
If you’re a fan of Mexican food or love building your own burrito bowls at home, this easy cilantro lime rice recipe is going to be your new favorite recipe. It’s packed with flavor, made with simple ingredients, and has that light, fluffy texture that makes it the perfect accompaniment to all kinds of meals. Whether you’re pairing it with black beans, pico de gallo, or grilled chicken, this is one of those easy rice recipes that works.
Why Use Basmati Rice?
Let’s talk about the type of rice. While you can technically use regular rice, this recipe shines when made with aromatic basmati or jasmine rice. These long-grain rice varieties cook up light and separate, which is key to that fluffy rice texture.
Basmati has a slightly nutty flavor that gives it a little something extra. Just make sure to rinse the rice well under cold water before cooking. This step removes excess starch and helps you get perfect rice every time—no mushy texture here.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is a simple recipe, and most of what you need is probably already in your kitchen. Here’s what goes into it:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (basmati or jasmine rice preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (either works, depending on your preference)
- Juice of 2 fresh limes (2 tablespoons)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (fresh cilantro is key here)
- Salt to taste
How to Cook Basmati Cilantro Lime Rice
Here are the simple steps to make fresh, vibrant, delicious cilantro lime rice that’s ready to serve:
- Start by bringing the broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add your rinsed raw rice, salt and lime juice.
- Stir, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Let it cook undisturbed for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid still on. This step lets the steam finish the cooking process and helps give the rice that fluffy texture.
- Then, use a fork to fluff the rice and add the chopped cilantro.
How to Serve Basmati Cilantro Lime Rice
This rice is the perfect side dish for so many meals. Spoon it into tacos or serve it next to enchiladas, or use it as the base for my homemade burrito bowl recipe with a drizzle of my cilantro lime dressing—it’s a game changer.
It also pairs beautifully with grilled veggies and black beans for a simple, meatless option. Whether it’s under grilled chicken or fish, the citrus and herb combo brings everything together.
Storage and Meal Prep
If you’re into meal prep, this recipe is gold. Make a big batch and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep for several days and reheats beautifully. Use it in rice bowls or stuff it into burritos.
Tips for Success
- Always rinse your rice! This step is key for removing excess starch and getting fluffy, separate grains.
- Like a little kick? Add some chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat.
- Want more life flavor? Add some lime zest or more juice of fresh limes to give you bold flavor.
Whether you’re making it for the first time or adding it to your list of go-to easy side dishes, this cilantro rice is one of those great recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, flavorful, and made with real ingredients—not from a box.
So the next time you’re putting together a weeknight dinner or planning out your meal prep, whip up this easy cilantro lime rice recipe. It’s a delicious, no-fuss way to turn plain rice into something special. And honestly, the best part? It goes with just about everything.
Basmati Cilantro Lime Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked white rice basmati or jasmine rice preferred
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth either works, depending on your preference
- Juice of 2 fresh limes 2 tablespoons
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro fresh cilantro is key here
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Start by bringing the broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add your rinsed raw rice, salt and lime juice.
- Stir, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Let it cook undisturbed for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid still on. This step lets the steam finish the cooking process and helps give the rice that fluffy texture.
- Then, use a fork to fluff the rice and add the chopped cilantro.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Services LLC Associates Program participant, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
About Sarah
Wife. Mother. From-Scratch Cook. Homemaker.
I’m Sarah, the creator of Rocky Hedge Farm, where I share my love for simple living, homemade meals, and creating a cozy home. As a wife and mother, I’m passionate about slowing down, cooking from scratch, and finding joy in the everyday moments of life. From DIY projects and family-friendly recipes, I hope to inspire others to embrace a life rooted in simplicity and warmth.
