Burrito Bowl Cilantro Lime Rice
Highlighted under: Wholesome & Fresh Recipes
This Burrito Bowl Cilantro Lime Rice is a fresh and zesty addition to any meal, perfect for burritos, bowls, or as a side dish.
This Burrito Bowl Cilantro Lime Rice is not just a side dish; it's a flavor-packed base that elevates any meal. The bright flavors of cilantro and lime create a refreshing taste that complements your favorite proteins and toppings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and zesty flavors that brighten your meal
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
- Versatile base for burritos, bowls, or as a side dish
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Cilantro lime rice is a beloved staple in many cuisines, particularly in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. This recipe offers a vibrant twist on traditional rice, infusing it with zesty lime and aromatic cilantro. The bright flavors not only enhance the rice but also elevate the entire meal, making it a delightful addition to burrito bowls, tacos, or as a side dish. The combination of citrus and herbs brings a refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with savory ingredients.
By incorporating lime juice and fresh cilantro, this rice dish transforms from a simple carbohydrate to a flavorful foundation for your culinary creations. Whether you’re serving it with grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables, or in a hearty burrito, the cilantro lime rice adds a punch of freshness that complements a variety of dishes. It's a fantastic way to introduce more flavor into your meals without much extra effort.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this cilantro lime rice recipe is its suitability for meal prep. Preparing a large batch at the beginning of the week allows you to have a versatile and quick base ready for multiple meals. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it can last for up to five days, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays.
You can easily reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to restore moisture. This makes it simple to create delicious burrito bowls or side dishes in a matter of minutes. The bright flavors stand up well even after a few days, ensuring that you always have a tasty option at your fingertips.
Customization Options
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as diced jalapeños for a kick of heat or black beans for added protein and fiber. You can also switch up the herbs—try parsley or green onions if cilantro isn’t your favorite.
For a richer flavor, consider sautéing the rice in olive oil before adding the water. This extra step adds a nutty depth to the dish. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or corn for a colorful and nutritious boost. The possibilities are endless, making this rice a canvas for your culinary creativity.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious cilantro lime rice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white rice
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your cilantro lime rice.
Cook the Rice
In a large pot, combine the white rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
Fluff and Season
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder.
Serve
Serve the cilantro lime rice warm as a base for burrito bowls or alongside your favorite dishes.
Enjoy your delicious cilantro lime rice!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or chopped green onions to the rice before serving.
Storage Tips
To keep your cilantro lime rice fresh, store it in an airtight container. It can safely be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. When ready to use, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or microwave it directly from frozen, adding a little water to prevent it from drying out.
Always allow the rice to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy rice. Proper storage not only maintains the flavor but also ensures that you have a quick and convenient meal option whenever you need it.
Serving Suggestions
Cilantro lime rice is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or shrimp, creating a well-rounded meal. You can also use it as a base for vegetarian burrito bowls topped with black beans, fresh salsa, and avocado for a hearty and satisfying dish.
For a lighter option, serve the rice alongside a fresh salad or mix it into a vegetable stir-fry. The zesty flavors enhance the overall dish, making it a delightful accompaniment. No matter how you serve it, cilantro lime rice is sure to impress your family and friends.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to being delicious, cilantro lime rice can be a nutritious addition to your meals. Brown rice can be used as a substitute for white rice, offering more fiber and nutrients. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants, and lime juice provides a boost of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
By incorporating this flavorful rice into your meals, you're not just enhancing taste but also adding nutritional value. It’s a great way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while satisfying your cravings for something tasty and fulfilling.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more water.
→ How can I store leftover cilantro lime rice?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze cilantro lime rice?
Yes, cilantro lime rice can be frozen. Ensure it is well-sealed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with cilantro lime rice?
It's great with grilled chicken, shrimp, or as part of a vegetarian burrito bowl.
Burrito Bowl Cilantro Lime Rice
This Burrito Bowl Cilantro Lime Rice is a fresh and zesty addition to any meal, perfect for burritos, bowls, or as a side dish.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Wholesome & Fresh Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups white rice
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How-To Steps
In a large pot, combine the white rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder.
Serve the cilantro lime rice warm as a base for burrito bowls or alongside your favorite dishes.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or chopped green onions to the rice before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 4g