Infuse a zip of citrus into your basmati with this recipe for Baked Cilantro-Lime Rice—an aromatic and refreshing take on a beloved side dish.
Sometimes being the household chef isn’t so much about concocting new and exciting meals; it’s about taking traditional dishes and infusing them with something a little different. In other words, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. That’s how this recipe for baked cilantro-lime rice came about.
Baking cilantro-lime rice in a casserole dish instead of cooking it on the stove makes the rice a perfect bed for whatever protein you’re serving it with—you can simply place the cooked protein on top of the rice. Using the oven also frees up room on your stovetop to cook the main dish. By adding cilantro, lime juice, paprika, and cumin, this side dish is a bright and flavorful version of plain old rice.
Is Baked Cilantro-Lime Rice Healthy?
As far as rice dishes go, yes. This recipe contains only a handful of ingredients, and there’s only a small amount of butter. The rice itself is low in fat but high in carbs, which may be an issue for some diets. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, feel free to use a plant-based butter. To make this dish healthier, consider adding some vegetables, either stirred through or served on top of the rice. You can also consider using brown basmati rice for extra fiber, but bear in mind that the cooking times will differ, so check the package instructions.
What Is Basmati Rice?
Basmati is a variety of rice native to the foothills of the Himalayas, primarily grown in India and Pakistan. It’s a long-grain rice that is known for its delicate fragrance, fluffy texture when cooked, and unique taste. The word “basmati” means “fragrant” in Sanskrit, and it truly lives up to its name! Some people describe its aroma as reminiscent of popcorn or nuts, while others might notice subtle floral undertones. Personally, I find its scent to be distinctively aromatic with a hint of sweetness.
In India, basmati rice is used in dishes like biryani, pilaf, and kheer (a creamy rice pudding). Pakistan is also renowned for its biryanis, which often feature basmati rice layered with spiced meats or vegetables.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Once the rice has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan on keeping it around longer, put the rice in a freezer-safe bag, flatten it out, and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight before reheating. You may want to add a small splash of water before reheating in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This rice complements so many main dishes. For simple main proteins, consider some Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast, Healthy Baked Salmon, or Air-Fryer Pork Tenderloin. Lean into the Tex-Mex theme by serving cilantro lime rice alongside Crock-Pot Chicken Enchiladas or some Tasty Tofu Tacos.
Alternatively, you could make this rice a meal in itself by adding crumbled bacon, crispy tofu, or sautéed ham cubes to the rice after you take it out of the oven.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter softened
- 2 cups uncooked basmati rice rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cups water boiled
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cilantro chopped
- 1 lime juiced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and brush a 9×13-inch casserole dish with softened butter.
- Fill the dish with the rice, paprika, cumin, boiling water, and salt.
- Gently stir, then cover the dish with aluminum foil. Cook the dish in the oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the dish from the oven, then carefully remove the foil. Add the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Stir.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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