Quick Cilantro Lime Rice

This Quick Cilantro Lime Rice is bright, zesty, and the perfect sidekick to your favorite plant-based meals. Made with parboiled rice, it comes together quickly and holds its shape beautifully—ideal for tacos, burrito bowls, or meal prep. Fresh cilantro and lime juice bring a vibrant, refreshing twist, while a touch of garlic and olive oil adds depth. Whether you're serving it warm or chilled, this simple dish packs big flavor in every bite!

Ingredients

1 cup Parboiled Rice

2 cups Water or Vegetable Broth

1 Tablespoon Olive Oil or Vegan Butter

1/2 tsp Salt

1 Clove Garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)

Juice of 1 Lime

Zest of 1 Lime

1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro, finely chopped

Optional: 1–2 Green Onions, finely sliced

This rice is simple, bright, and honestly one of my favorite sides. It gives major Chipotle vibes but made fresh in your own kitchen. I use long grain white rice or basmati, then finish it with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for that zesty punch. It goes with everything—burritos, bowls, tacos, tofu—you name it. I always make a double batch because it disappears fast around here!

Instructions

Rinse parboiled rice for about 1 minute under cold water to remove extra starch and improve texture.

In a medium pot, add rice, water (or broth), olive oil, salt, and garlic if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Once cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.Then fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro.

Add more salt or lime juice to taste. Top with sliced green onions if desired.

Tip

Parboiled rice holds its shape well and doesn’t get mushy — perfect for meal prep or layering in bowls!