Can cilantro lime rice be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make cilantro lime rice ahead of time. Simply prepare the rice as instructed and let it cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat the rice in the microwave. If necessary, you can add a splash of water to help loosen it up and bring back its freshness.

Can cilantro lime rice be frozen?

Yes, cilantro lime rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the rice cool and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave, adding a little water to loosen it up if necessary.

Can I replace the cilantro with another herb?

Yes, you can replace cilantro with another herb if you're not a fan of its flavor. Flat-leaf Italian parsley is a great alternative. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try using basil for an Italian twist. Just keep in mind that the herb you choose will change the flavor of the rice, so pick one that complements the other dishes you plan to serve.

Cilantro Lime Rice - Once Upon a Chef

Cilantro Lime Rice

By Jenn Segal

Love Chipotle’s famous cilantro lime rice? Make it in your own kitchen with this easy recipe—it’s just as tasty, if not better!

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Cook Time: 25 Minutes

Total Time: 35 Minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
⅓ cup minced yellow onion, from 1 small onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1½ cups basmati rice
1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon lime juice, from 1 lime
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Do not brown; lower the heat if necessary.
Add the garlic and rice and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until toasty and fragrant.
Add 2½ cups water, along with the salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Taste the rice; if it is still a bit firm, add a few more tablespoons of water and cook a few minutes more.
Off the heat, add the lime juice, butter, and cilantro; then mix and fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Make-Ahead/Freezing Instructions: The rice can be made up to 4 days ahead of time or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply prepare the rice as instructed and let it cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, thaw overnight if necessary and reheat in the microwave. If necessary, you can add a splash of water to help loosen it up and bring back its freshness.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (4 servings)
Calories: 349
Fat: 10 g
Saturated fat: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 57 g
Sugar: 1 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 5 g
Sodium: 230 mg
Cholesterol: 8 mg

Gluten-Free Adaptable Note

To the best of my knowledge, all of the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free or widely available in gluten-free versions. There is hidden gluten in many foods; if you're following a gluten-free diet or cooking for someone with gluten allergies, always read the labels of your ingredients to verify that they are gluten-free.