Cilantro Lime Rice
A vibrant and refreshing dish that combines zesty lime and herby cilantro, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals.
Ingredients
For the rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Adds subtle richness
- 1/3 cup minced yellow onion From 1 small onion, brings depth to the flavor
- 1 clove garlic (minced) Elevates the dish with aromatic notes
- 1.5 cups basmati rice Long grains that cook beautifully
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavors
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds warmth and complexity
- 1 tablespoon lime juice Provides a bright, zesty punch
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter Adds a rich, creamy finish
- 0.25 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro Introduces a vibrant burst of flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the minced yellow onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and basmati rice to the saucepan. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the rice is slightly toasty and fragrant.
- Pour in 2½ cups of water. Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper, stirring well to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and allow it to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness.
- After removing the saucepan from heat, add the lime juice, butter, and freshly chopped cilantro. Gently mix and fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding lime zest along with the juice. Allow the rice to rest for a few minutes off the heat before serving. If desired, you can add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.