Tired of plain rice as a side dish? Craving something vibrant and flavorful that's ready in minutes? Then look no further! This cilantro lime rice recipe, cooked effortlessly in your rice cooker, is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a quick and healthy addition to your next meal. This easy recipe delivers a delicious and refreshing twist on a classic, elevating your everyday meals with minimal effort. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering big on taste without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 ¾ cups water or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 large lime)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
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Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent stickiness.
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Combine Ingredients: In your rice cooker, combine the rinsed rice, water (or broth), olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional garlic and onion powder. Stir gently to combine.
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Add Cilantro and Lime Juice: Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.
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Cook in Rice Cooker: Close the lid of your rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions for white rice. This usually takes around 20-25 minutes.
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Fluff and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, let it sit in the rice cooker for about 5 minutes to allow the steam to escape. Then, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Tips for Perfect Cilantro Lime Rice:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh cilantro and lime juice makes all the difference in the flavor of this dish. Don't substitute dried herbs – the fresh ingredients provide a superior brightness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the rice before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and lime juice to your preference.
- Broth for Depth: Using chicken broth instead of water adds a subtle savory depth to the flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked rice can be mushy. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your rice cooker carefully.
Variations:
- Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or lemon juice in addition to or instead of the lime juice.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate other fresh herbs like parsley or mint along with the cilantro for a more complex flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, but ensure your broth is also vegan-friendly if you choose to use it.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 2g
This quick dinner idea is perfect for healthy meals and is a delicious and simple addition to any cuisine. Enjoy this flavorful and refreshing cilantro lime rice recipe! It’s one of the best recipes for a quick, easy and delicious meal. It’s sure to become a family favorite!