Here's The Skinny ~ Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

"This tastes just like Chipotle's but without all the added fat and calories. From Gina's Skinny Recipes Servings: 4 • Size: 3/4 cup • Old Points: 4 pts • Points+: 5 pts Calories: 201.0 • Fat: 3.4 • Carbs: 37.4 • Fiber: 0 • Protein: 4.0 g"

Ingredients

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1 cup extra long grain rice or basmati rice
1/2 lime, juice of
2 cups water

1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
3 teaspoons vegetable oil

Nutritional

Serving Size: 1 (242.3 g)
Calories 224
Total Fat - 4.2 g
Saturated Fat - 0.9 g
Cholesterol - 0 mg
Sodium - 146.3 mg
Total Carbohydrate - 42.7 g
Dietary Fiber - 2 g
Sugars - 6.6 g
Protein - 3.7 g
Calcium - 16.4 mg
Iron - 0.7 mg
Vitamin C - 0 mg
Thiamin - 0.2 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

In a small heavy pot, add rice, water, 1 teaspoon oil and salt.

Step 2

Boil on high until most of the water evaporates. When the water just skims the top of the rice, reduce to low, and cover about 15 minutes. Shut off flame and keep covered an additional 5 minutes.

Step 3

In a medium bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, rice and remaining oil, and toss until completely mixed.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.

Tips for selecting ingredients

When selecting a rice, choose an extra long grain or basmati variety for best results.
When adding the oil, use a light vegetable oil to keep the dish low in fat and calories.

Ingredient substitutions

Substitute quinoa for the rice: Quinoa is a great alternative to rice as it is a complete protein, providing all 9 essential amino acids. It is also a good source of dietary fiber and is naturally gluten free. This makes it a great choice for those looking to increase their intake of protein and fiber while reducing their gluten intake.
Substitute olive oil for vegetable oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat that is high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. It is also a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. This makes it a healthier alternative to vegetable oil.

Variations

Vegan Cilantro Lime Rice Replace the vegetable oil with 2 tablespoons of vegan butter and use vegetable broth in place of the water.

Vegan Coconut Curry Rice Replace the vegetable oil with 2 tablespoons of vegan butter, use vegetable broth in place of the water, and add 1 tablespoon of curry powder and 1/2 cup of coconut milk. Cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Serve with

Grilled Vegetable Skewers - Grilled vegetable skewers are the perfect accompaniment to this light and flavorful cilantro lime rice. The vegetables are charred and juicy, and the flavors pair perfectly with the rice. Plus, they are a great source of vitamins and minerals, adding a healthy boost to your meal.

Black Bean Salad: This fresh and flavorful black bean salad is the perfect complement to the cilantro lime rice. It's packed with protein and fiber, and the combination of beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro is a delicious way to add extra nutrition to your meal. Plus, it's easy to make and can be served cold or warm.

FAQ

Q: How long do I cook the rice?

A: Boil the rice on high until most of the water evaporates. When the water just skims the top of the rice, reduce to low, cover and cook for 15 minutes. Shut off flame and keep covered an additional 5 minutes.

Q: How do I know when the rice is done?

A: The rice is done when it is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. To test, take a few grains of rice and press them between your thumb and forefinger. If they are soft and easily mashed, the rice is done.

Fun facts:

Fun Fact 1: Cilantro is an ancient herb, used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It's also been used in Ayurvedic medicine in India for centuries.

Fun Fact 2: Cilantro Lime Rice is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine, and is often served in Mexican restaurants across the United States. It was popularized by the Chipotle chain, which serves it as a side dish with many of their meals.