Are you looking for a quick and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal? This easy Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice is the answer.
With its bright and zesty flavors, it’s a hit at dinner tables and potlucks alike. Plus, it’s made in the Instant Pot, making it a stress-free addition to your cooking repertoire.
Whether you’re serving it with tacos, grilled chicken, or simply enjoying it on its own, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Steps
- Combine the rice, water, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and salt in the Instant Pot and mix well.
- Secure the lid and set the pressure cooker to high for 3 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Use a fork to fluff the rice and transfer it to a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and the remaining olive oil.
- Add the fluffed rice to the cilantro mixture and toss until everything is well combined.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice or jasmine rice, not rinsed
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Nutritional Values
Calories: 776 kcal | Carbohydrates: 142 g | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 14 g | Sodium: 1120 mg | Sugar: 2 g
FAQ
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook the brown rice in the Instant Pot for 23 minutes and then allow a natural release.
- Is it necessary to rinse the rice before cooking it in the Instant Pot?
- Rinsing the rice is optional for this recipe. The Instant Pot method allows you to skip this step if desired.
- Can I double the recipe, and will the cooking time change?
- You can double the recipe using the same rice-to-water ratio. The cooking time will remain the same even with a larger batch.
- How can I store leftover cilantro lime rice?
- You can freeze any leftover rice in individual portions using freezer bags. This makes it easy to prepare burritos or burrito bowls later on.
- What are some good pairings with cilantro lime rice?
- Cilantro lime rice pairs well with various Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, or as a base for a Chipotle-style burrito bowl. It also complements black beans perfectly.
Tips
- To maintain the ideal texture, allow the rice to undergo a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release. This helps prevent the rice from becoming overly sticky.
- If you’re preparing a larger quantity, simply double the ingredients while keeping the cooking time the same. This method works well for batch cooking or meal prep.
- Consider freezing any leftover rice in individual portions using freezer bags. This makes it convenient to add the rice to meals like burrito bowls whenever you need a quick meal solution.
- If you’re looking to reduce carbs, try substituting the rice with cauliflower rice while still enjoying the same cilantro lime flavor.
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
