Lime Cilantro Rice Fresh and Flavorful Side Dish

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 lime zested and juiced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water), then stir in the lime juice, zest, salt, black pepper, and optional chili powder if using.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Allow the rice to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently mix in the fresh cilantro until evenly distributed.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or pepper if desired.