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Lime Cilantro Rice Bowls

Zesty Lime Cilantro Rice Bowls for a Fresh Dinner Delight

Lime Cilantro Rice Bowls are a vibrant and easy dish that transforms weeknight dinners with fresh flavors and healthy ingredients.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Substitute with olive oil if desired.
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice Jasmine or brown rice can be used as alternatives.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Use fresh or powdered garlic based on preference.
  • 2 cups Water (or broth) Using broth will deepen the flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Zest Lemon zest can work in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning for flavor.
For the Flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Fresh juice is best for vibrant taste.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Leaves Parsley can be used as a substitute.
For the Toppings
  • 1 cup Black Beans Kidney beans or chickpeas are good substitutes.
  • 1 cup Corn Can use fresh, canned, or frozen.
  • 1 cup Cooked Chicken Replace with tofu for vegetarian option.
  • 1 cup Diced Tomatoes Cherry tomatoes can also be used.
  • 1 medium Avocado Omit if allergic; swap for cucumber.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Lime Sauce Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (optional) Omit for different flavor profile.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or medium saucepan

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a Dutch oven or medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 cup of basmati rice, stirring constantly for about 3-4 minutes until the rice is lightly golden and fragrant.
  2. Next, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until aromatic. Then, add 2 cups of water or broth, the zest of 1 lime, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring occasionally.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. After simmering, add the juice of 1 lime and re-cover the pot. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and gently fold in 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro, adjusting salt if necessary.
  6. In serving bowls, layer 1 cup of the fluffy lime cilantro rice as the base. Top with 1/2 cup of black beans, 1/2 cup of corn, and your choice of protein.
  7. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes and 1 medium diced avocado on top.
  8. Finish with a generous drizzle of cilantro lime sauce and garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 15gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This dish is customizable; substitute ingredients as preferred. Ideal for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

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