Name: Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup long grain white rice; 1¼ cups water; 2 tsp olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; ½ lime; ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro

Transform plain rice into a vibrant, flavorful side dish with this instant pot cilantro lime rice recipe. Perfect for pairing with Mexican dishes or grilled meats, this rice combines the zesty tang of lime and the fresh taste of cilantro.

Photos of Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

If you're not familiar with cilantro or kosher salt, don't worry; they're easy to find in most supermarkets. Cilantro is a fresh herb often used in Latin American cuisine, and kosher salt is a coarser type of salt that enhances flavor more effectively than table salt.

Ingredients For Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

long grain white rice: A staple in many cuisines, providing a fluffy, non-sticky texture after cooking.

water: Essential for cooking the rice to the perfect consistency.

olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and prevents the rice from sticking together.

kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the rice.

lime: Adds a refreshing, zesty tang that elevates the dish.

cilantro: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the lime perfectly.

One reader, Gaelan Tavarez says:

This cilantro lime rice is a game-changer! The Instant Pot makes it so quick and easy. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, perfect as a side dish or base for burrito bowls. Highly recommend!

Gaelan Tavarez

Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

How to use a pressure cooker: Explanation on how to operate a pressure cooker, including setting it to high pressure and understanding natural and quick pressure release. How to chop cilantro: Explanation on how to properly chop fresh cilantro. How to juice a lime: Explanation on how to extract juice from a lime.

How To Make InstantPot Cilantro Lime Rice

This side dish has a distinctly tangy flavor that produces a cool sensation in the mouth. This lime rice dish is easy to make and cooked using InstantPot.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cuplong grain white rice,or jasmine, un-rinsed
1¼cupswater
2tspolive oil
1tspkosher salt
½lime,juiced
¼cupfresh chopped cilantro

Instructions

Add the rice, water, 1 teaspoon of the oil and salt to the pressure cooker pot and stir.
Cover and cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes. When the timer beeps, use Natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes do a quick pressure release and fluff rice with a fork.
In a medium bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, and remaining oil. Add the rice and toss until thoroughly mixed.

Nutrition

Calories: 22.81kcal
Fat: 2.27g
Saturated Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.24g
Carbohydrates: 0.96g
Fiber: 0.26g
Sugar: 0.15g
Protein: 0.08g
Sodium: 199.38mg
Calcium: 5.80mg
Potassium: 13.86mg
Iron: 0.08mg
Vitamin A: 3.54µg
Vitamin C: 2.71mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

To enhance the flavor of your rice, consider toasting it in the olive oil for a couple of minutes before adding the water and salt to the pressure cooker. This will give the rice a nutty aroma and a richer taste.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Rinse the rice: Rinsing long grain white rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky and ensuring a fluffier texture.

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the cilantro and juice the lime while the rice is cooking to save time.

Use a rice measuring cup: Using a rice-specific measuring cup ensures accurate measurements and consistent results.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.

Instant pot presets: Utilize the Instant Pot rice preset if available for even more convenience.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

long grain white rice - Substitute with basmati rice: Basmati rice has a similar texture and cooking time, making it a great alternative.
long grain white rice - Substitute with jasmine rice: Jasmine rice has a slightly different aroma but similar cooking properties.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more flavor to the rice.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good option for a vegetarian version with added flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile.
kosher salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used in a pinch, but use slightly less as it is finer and more concentrated.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
lime - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar adds acidity without overpowering the dish.
fresh chopped cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, green flavor, though it lacks the citrus notes of cilantro.
fresh chopped cilantro - Substitute with mint: Mint offers a refreshing twist and pairs well with lime.

Presentation Ideas for Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

Use a ring mold: Place a ring mold on the plate and fill it with the cilantro lime rice. Press down gently to compact the rice and then carefully lift the mold to create a neat, cylindrical shape.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some additional freshly chopped cilantro on top of the rice for a burst of color and freshness.
Add lime wedges: Place a couple of small lime wedges on the side of the plate. This not only adds a visual appeal but also allows diners to add extra lime juice if they desire.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle some high-quality olive oil around the rice on the plate. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the flavor.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the cilantro lime rice on a dark-colored plate to make the vibrant green of the cilantro and the white rice stand out.
Add microgreens: Top the rice with a small handful of microgreens for an additional layer of texture and a touch of sophistication.
Serve with a protein: Pair the cilantro lime rice with a beautifully seared piece of fish, chicken, or tofu to create a complete and balanced dish.
Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt: Just before serving, add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the rice to enhance the flavors and add a slight crunch.

Essential Tools for Making Cilantro Lime Rice in an Instant Pot

Pressure cooker: Used to cook the rice quickly and efficiently under high pressure.
Measuring cup: Essential for accurately measuring the rice and water.
Teaspoon: Needed to measure the olive oil and salt precisely.
Fork: Used to fluff the rice after cooking to ensure it’s light and airy.
Medium bowl: For mixing the cooked rice with cilantro, lime juice, and remaining oil.
Knife: To chop the fresh cilantro finely.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the cilantro.
Juicer: Handy for extracting juice from the lime efficiently.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cilantro Lime Rice

To store leftover cilantro lime rice, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the rice for up to 4-5 days.
When ready to reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. You can also reheat the rice in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cilantro lime rice. Allow the rice to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Frozen cilantro lime rice can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the container in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
When reheating frozen rice, add a bit more water than you would for refrigerated rice, as the freezing process can dry it out slightly. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the rice is heated through and has regained its fluffy texture.
To maintain the best flavor and texture of the cilantro, you can freeze the rice without the herb and add freshly chopped cilantro when reheating the rice. This will ensure that the cilantro remains vibrant and flavorful.

How To Reheat Leftover Cilantro Lime Rice

Reheat the cilantro lime rice in the microwave: place the desired amount of rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or chicken broth, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through and steaming.
Revive the rice on the stovetop: transfer the leftover rice to a saucepan, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth per cup of rice, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and the liquid is absorbed, about 5-7 minutes. Fluff with a fork and add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to brighten up the flavors.
Transform the leftover cilantro lime rice into a quick and easy fried rice: heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add diced onion, carrots, and peas, and sauté until tender. Add the leftover rice, a splash of soy sauce, and a pinch of garlic powder, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
Create a flavorful rice bowl with the reheated cilantro lime rice: top the heated rice with your favorite protein (such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu), black beans, diced avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Garnish with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Interesting Trivia About Cilantro Lime Rice

A random fact about this recipe is that using an Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time for rice compared to traditional stovetop methods, making it a quick and convenient option for busy weeknights.

Is Making Cilantro Lime Rice in an Instant Pot Cost-Effective?

This cilantro lime rice recipe is highly cost-effective. Using basic pantry staples like long grain white rice and olive oil, along with fresh cilantro and lime, the total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $3-$4. The ingredients are affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly side dish. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Healthy?

The instant pot cilantro lime rice recipe is relatively healthy, as it incorporates whole ingredients like fresh cilantro and lime juice. White rice, while not as nutritious as brown rice, can still be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. The recipe also uses a minimal amount of healthy fat in the form of olive oil, which provides beneficial monounsaturated fats. However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to boost its nutritional value:

Swap white rice for brown rice, which is higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Reduce the amount of salt to lower the sodium content
Include additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or onions, to increase the fiber and nutrient content

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water to cook the rice for added flavor without increasing the sodium content significantly
Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans to the rice for an extra boost of protein and fiber
Garnish the dish with sliced avocado for healthy monounsaturated fats and a creamy texture
Serve the cilantro lime rice with grilled chicken or shrimp and a side salad for a well-rounded, nutritious meal

Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot Rice Recipe

This cilantro lime rice recipe for the Instant Pot is a delightful and efficient way to elevate a simple side dish. The use of fresh cilantro and lime juice adds a vibrant, zesty flavor that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The method is straightforward, ensuring perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. The addition of olive oil enhances the texture, making the rice slightly more luxurious. Overall, it's a fantastic recipe for both novice and experienced cooks looking to add a fresh twist to their meal repertoire.

Enhance Your Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Imagine the smoky sweetness of grilled pineapple mingling with the zesty kick of jalapeños and the freshness of diced tomatoes. This vibrant salsa will add a tropical twist to your cilantro lime rice, making every bite a fiesta of flavors.

Spicy Black Bean Soup: Spicy Black Bean Soup: Picture a hearty bowl of black beans, simmered to perfection with cumin, garlic, and a hint of smoked paprika. This soup, with its rich and robust flavors, will complement the light and citrusy notes of your cilantro lime rice beautifully.

Mango Avocado Salad: Mango Avocado Salad: Envision a refreshing salad where the creamy texture of avocado meets the juicy sweetness of mango. Tossed with a tangy lime vinaigrette, this salad will provide a delightful contrast to the savory cilantro lime rice.

Chipotle Chicken Skewers: Chipotle Chicken Skewers: Think of succulent chicken pieces marinated in a smoky chipotle sauce, grilled to perfection. These skewers will add a spicy and savory element to your meal, perfectly balancing the fresh and zesty cilantro lime rice.

Roasted Corn and Poblano Salad: Roasted Corn and Poblano Salad: Imagine the sweet crunch of roasted corn paired with the mild heat of poblano peppers. Tossed with a hint of lime and cilantro, this salad will bring a smoky and tangy flavor profile to your cilantro lime rice.

Similar Recipes to Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines grilled corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect as a side or a light meal, this salad brings the essence of Mexican street food to your table.

Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls: Chicken Fajita Rice Bowls are a hearty and satisfying meal featuring seasoned chicken, bell peppers, and onions served over a bed of fluffy rice. Top with avocado, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime for a complete and delicious bowl.

Avocado Lime Quinoa Salad: Avocado Lime Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines quinoa, avocado, black beans, and corn with a tangy lime dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to your favorite grilled meats.

Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos: Cilantro Lime Shrimp Tacos are a delightful and easy-to-make meal featuring succulent shrimp marinated in cilantro and lime, served in warm tortillas and topped with fresh salsa and avocado. These tacos are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Why trust this Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe:

This recipe is a foolproof way to achieve perfectly fluffy cilantro lime rice every time. Using an Instant Pot ensures consistent results, while the combination of fresh cilantro and lime juice adds a burst of flavor. The simplicity of the ingredients—long grain white rice, olive oil, and kosher salt—makes it both accessible and delicious. Trust this recipe for its ease and the vibrant, zesty taste it brings to your table.

Want to share your own twist on this Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of the forum and let us know!

FAQ:

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the Instant Pot?

Make sure to stir the rice, water, oil, and salt well before cooking. Also, adding a bit of oil helps prevent sticking.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time.

How do I store leftover cilantro lime rice?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your Instant Pot is large enough to handle the increased volume. The cooking time remains the same.

What can I serve with cilantro lime rice?

This rice pairs well with a variety of dishes like grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even as a base for burrito bowls.