Typically I serve a side of Spanish Rice with most of my Mexican meals. You can find my favorite restaurant Spanish Rice recipe here. It’s a tasty recipe that comes together easily. Sometimes though, something a little lighter with a fresh burst of flavor would fit the bill better, like when I am serving Fish Tacos.
Click here for my favorite Fish Taco recipe that also includes my favorite fish taco sauce. You must give that sauce a try! It is insanely delicious and will make even your sneakers taste delectable! It’s that good!!!
For years I have been on the hunt for an easy flavor packed side that compliments and holds up to the more intense spicy flavors of my favorite Mexican dishes. Something easy to prepare that packs a flavorful punch.
I’ve tried several variations of Cilantro Lime rice over the years but none of them have packed much flavor. Most were a big disappointment that just turned out too bland and didn’t warrant the extra effort it took to make them.
The flavor profile produced in this recipe however is very good. It has a fresh, bright flavor that I think you will really enjoy with almost any of your favorite Mexican foods. It pairs especially well with the more delicate flavors of fish tacos!
Start by bringing chicken broth and salt to a boil on your stovetop in a medium sized saucepan. I used 1 can of low sodium chicken broth and added a bit of water until I had 2 cups of liquid.
Stir in the rice. Cover the pan and reduce heat too low. Simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid. Check the cooking instructions on the bag of rice you are using, cooking times can vary.
While you have the rice cooking on the stove pull out your food processor or blender and combine Cilantro, lime juice and zest, garlic and olive oil until you have a thick puree.
Tip: Don’t throw out the remaining Cilantro. Use it to make a batch of Mama Rita’s Amazing Salsa. You can find the recipe for it here.
When the rice has finished cooking, fluff with a fork and stir in the Cilantro puree, stir until will combined.
Top with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and some lime zest to serve.
DIG IN!
Cilantro Lime Rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro + 1 teaspoon chopped for garnish
- Juice from 1 lime
- Zest from the lime
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Add chicken broth or water and salt to a large pot on your stovetop and bring to a boil.
Stir in the rice, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook rice about 20-30 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, combine cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and garlic in a food processor, until you have a nice puree.
Once rice is cooked, remove from heat.
Stir in pureed cilantro lime mixture, along with 1 teaspoon lime zest.
Fluff rice with a fork and top with chopped cilantro and lime zest for garnish.
I think you will really enjoy this recipe. It’s so easy to make and its a flavorful addition to any of your favorite Mexican dishes! Give it a try and let me know if it becomes a staple in your recipe arsenal too.