Are you tired of the same old side dishes? Looking to inject some zesty flavors into your meals without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you’re in for a treat with this simple yet transformative recipe for Cilantro-Lime Infused Rice. This dish not only packs a punch of vibrant flavors but also boasts an easy prep and cooking process, making it the perfect accompaniment for a wide range of main courses. Let’s dive into the details of how you can recreate this delicious recipe at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided: We’ll use this to sauté the rice and blend with the cilantro-lime for a rich flavor.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: The perfect canvas for our infusion of flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: To enhance the natural flavors of our ingredients.
- 1 & 1/2 cups water: For cooking the rice until it’s perfectly tender.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest: For that citrus kick that elevates the dish.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds depth to the rice during cooking.
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro: Brings a fresh, herbaceous quality to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Works in harmony with the zest for that tangy flavor.
- 1 clove garlic: Adds a slight pungency, complementing the freshness of the cilantro.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps to blend the cilantro-lime mixture to silky perfection.
Directions to Deliciousness:
- Prep Work: Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium pot set over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the cup of rice along with the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial for giving the rice a nutty flavor and ensuring it doesn’t stick together.
- Infuse Flavors: To the sautéed rice, add 1 & 1/2 cups of water, the zest of one lime, and a single bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Let it Rest: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Create the Cilantro-Lime Mixture: While the rice is resting, take this time to blend the fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of water until the mixture is smooth.
- Final Touches: Discard the bay leaf from the rice and fluff it with a fork. Gently fold in the cilantro-lime mixture until well combined.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your Cilantro-Lime Infused Rice is now ready to be served. This dish is best enjoyed immediately while it’s bursting with fresh flavors.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 234 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Whether you’re pairing it with grilled chicken, fish, or a vegetable stir-fry, this Cilantro-Lime Infused Rice promises to be a versatile and unforgettable addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s a simple way to elevate a basic ingredient into a dish that’s bursting with flavor and zest. So, why not give it a try tonight and bring a touch of freshness to your dinner table?
Cilantro-Lime Infused Rice
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 cup long grain white rice
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 & 1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 bay leaf
1/2 cup fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 clove garlic
2 tablespoons water
Directions:
In a medium pot, over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add rice and salt; cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
Stir in 1 & 1/2 cups water, lime zest, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a low simmer. Cook until water is absorbed and rice is tender, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
While rice is resting, blend cilantro, lime juice, garlic, the remaining olive oil, and 2 tablespoons water until smooth.
Remove bay leaf from rice, fluff with a fork, and fold in cilantro-lime mixture. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 234 | Servings: 4