Cilantro Lime Brown Rice
Bright, zesty cilantro lime brown rice made with olive oil and fresh lime. A simple, healthy side that fits the Mediterranean Diet.
Servings: 4
Calories: 143kcal
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brown rice room temp or chilled
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 1 lime about 2 tablespoons
- ½ cup chopped cilantro loosely packed
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt to taste
Instructions
- Reheat the rice - Microwave with a microwave-safe cover until warm, about 60–90 seconds. Or warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water. Cover for 1–2 minutes, then fluff.
- Season - Add olive oil, lime zest, and lime juice. Toss gently to coat the grains.
- Finish and serve - Fold in the cilantro just before serving. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed.
Notes
- Make-ahead: Cook brown rice in a big batch and freeze individual portions. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight.
- Skillet tip: If using a skillet, a tablespoon or two of water plus a brief covered steam helps loosen cold rice.
- Variations: Swap lime for lemon, or use both for a bright blend. Parsley, mint, or chives also work nicely if you don't like cilantro.
- About the oil: This version uses extra virgin olive oil to align with the Mediterranean Diet. Restaurant versions often use a neutral vegetable oil.
- Extra aroma (optional): If you cook rice from scratch, add a bay leaf to the pot for gentle fragrance.
- How to cook brown rice: Package directions vary. For reference, see Lundberg’s instructions (linked in the FAQ on this page).
Nutrition
Calories: 143kcal | Total Carbohydrate: 24g | Protein: 2g | Total Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 97mg | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Total Sugars: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 139IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg | Includes Added Sugar: 0g