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Garlic Cilantro Lime Rice

Garlic Cilantro Lime Rice

Fluffy long-grain rice sautéed with garlic, then tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice for a savory, aromatic and zesty side dish.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Long-Grain Basmati Rice
  • 3 cups Hot Water
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 3 Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice
  • 1 tsp Lime Zest

Equipment

  • Heavy-Bottomed Pot with a Tight-Fitting Lid
  • Fine-Mesh Sieve
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear and drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes, coating each grain in the garlic-infused oil.
  4. Pour in hot water, add salt and black pepper, stir once, and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  7. Fluff rice with a fork, then stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest evenly.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

Notes

Sauteing garlic before adding the rice infuses every grain with flavor and stirring in lime juice after resting keeps it bright and fresh.