The flavor explosion in this cilantro lime green rice is unlike any other. By blending fresh spinach and cilantro into a rich mixture of broth and milk, and cooking the rice in it, each grain absorbs full-bodied green goodness. The final citrusy punch from fresh lime juice and zest brightens every bite.
Not only does it pair perfectly with bold Mexican mains like carne asada or fajitas, but it also stands tall on its own as a nourishing and satisfying dish. The secret green touch? Spinach giving both color and a gentle nutrient boost. This dish is ideal for meal preppers, foodies, or anyone ready to level up their rice game.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup chicken broth (or 1 cup water + 1 tsp chicken base)
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1 cup whole milk (any milk works)
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1½ tsp kosher salt (or 1 tsp table salt)
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1 cup packed spinach
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¾ cup packed cilantro leaves (about 1 bunch)
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1½ cups basmati rice
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¼ yellow onion, finely chopped
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1 garlic clove, minced
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2 tsp lime zest (from about 2 limes)
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3 tbsp fresh lime juice
Directions:
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In a blender, combine the chicken broth, milk, salt, spinach, and cilantro. Blend until smooth and vibrantly green.
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In a medium pot with a tight-fitting lid, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring until golden and fragrant.
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Add the onion and garlic; sauté for 1–2 more minutes until aromatic.
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Pour in the green mixture from the blender. Stir well.
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Bring to a boil, then cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes.
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Meanwhile, zest and juice the limes. After the rice has cooked, stir in the lime zest and juice.
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Cover again and let steam (off the heat) for 5–10 more minutes.
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Fluff with a fork before serving. Enjoy hot with your favorite Mexican dishes or solo as a delicious side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 332 kcal | Servings: 6
Cilantro Lime Green Rice: The Bright, Herbaceous Side Dish That Elevates Every Plate
When it comes to side dishes, rice is often underestimated. It’s a dependable canvas, a humble staple that anchors many meals across the globe. But every once in a while, a rice dish comes along that doesn’t just complement the main course it steals the show. Cilantro Lime Green Rice, also known as Arroz Verde, is exactly that dish.
Vibrant in both color and flavor, this green-hued, lime-zested creation offers far more than meets the eye. It’s not just a crowd pleasing side; it’s a celebration of fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and culinary creativity. Let’s dive into the story, appeal, and versatility of this beloved rice dish and explore why it deserves a regular spot on your table.
A Modern Twist on a Traditional Favorite
While the name “Cilantro Lime Rice” might evoke comparisons to fast-casual chains like Chipotle, its deeper roots trace back to traditional Mexican and Central American cuisines. There, green rice or Arroz Verde is commonly made with fresh herbs, onions, and sometimes even poblano peppers to give it color and flavor. The version we’re focusing on adds a modern twist with a few special additions like spinach for added color and nutrition, lime zest for punchy brightness, and a blend of milk and broth for creaminess and depth.
The result? A dish that’s familiar yet refreshingly new. It bridges comfort and innovation, traditional techniques and modern sensibilities. You’re not just eating rice you’re tasting a thoughtfully constructed flavor profile that’s layered, aromatic, and surprisingly complex.
What Makes It Stand Out
At first glance, this rice is hard to miss. Its brilliant green hue is thanks to the blend of fresh spinach and cilantro that’s pureed and simmered with the rice as it cooks. Unlike some recipes that simply stir herbs in at the end, this technique infuses every grain with flavor, turning rice into a herbaceous, creamy, lime-kissed dish that’s bold but balanced.
The use of basmati rice gives it a light and fluffy texture with a subtle nutty undertone, while toasting the rice in butter and olive oil adds depth and a slight golden nuttiness that grounds the brighter flavors. Then comes the lime juice and zest not just an afterthought, but a finishing move that adds tang and sparkle.
It’s a symphony of contrasts: creamy yet fresh, rich yet zesty, hearty yet light.
Flavor Profile: Bright, Creamy, and Balanced
Flavor-wise, Cilantro Lime Green Rice is herb-forward, aromatic, and citrusy with subtle savory undertones from the broth and butter. The cilantro brings a classic herbal flavor, while the spinach, although mostly neutral, adds richness, moisture, and color.
The garlic and onion sautéed into the toasted rice contribute a mellow sweetness and complexity that build a savory foundation for the green elements. And the lime oh, the lime is the star that ties it all together. Not just juice, but zest too, which brings a floral, concentrated citrus hit that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
It’s this careful layering of flavor from the aromatic to the acidic that elevates this dish far above your average seasoned rice.
The Perfect Pairings
One of the best things about this rice is its incredible versatility. It shines alongside a wide range of dishes and easily adapts to different cuisines:
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Mexican & Tex-Mex: Serve it with tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, carne asada, grilled shrimp, or carnitas. It’s particularly good in burrito bowls and taco salads.
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Caribbean-Inspired Meals: Think jerk chicken, black beans, or fried plantains. The herbal-citrus base complements smoky, spiced proteins perfectly.
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Asian-Inspired Meals: Pair it with grilled lemongrass chicken, sesame tofu, or Korean BBQ beef. Cilantro and lime are flavors that cross culinary borders with ease.
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Vegetarian Bowls: Use this rice as a base for roasted vegetable bowls with black beans, avocado, mango salsa, or a fried egg on top.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or planning your weekly meal prep, this rice works beautifully both as a side and as the centerpiece of a nourishing bowl.
Nutritional Benefits (Yes, It’s Healthy Too)
Beyond flavor, Cilantro Lime Green Rice offers a solid dose of nutrition, especially compared to plain white rice. Thanks to the spinach and cilantro, you get a natural boost of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber. Spinach is known for its iron and calcium content, while cilantro supports digestion and detoxification.
The use of milk and olive oil adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish with fat. You can also easily adjust this recipe to fit different dietary needs:
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Vegetarian-friendly if you use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
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Vegan if you swap the butter and milk for plant-based alternatives.
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Gluten-free naturally, as long as your broth is certified gluten-free.
It’s a rare find a side dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome.
Variations to Try
Like many great dishes, this rice is easily customizable:
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Add spice: Blend in a jalapeño or poblano for heat.
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Make it cheesy: Stir in some grated Cotija or queso fresco just before serving.
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Go tropical: Add shredded coconut or diced pineapple for a sweet twist.
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Switch herbs: Use parsley, basil, or even mint for a different herbaceous tone.
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Try other greens: Kale or arugula can replace spinach, each offering its own flavor note.
It’s the kind of recipe that can evolve with your mood, your pantry, and your plate.
Why It Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation
We all need a few reliable side dishes in our back pocket something that’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and pairs with a variety of mains. Cilantro Lime Green Rice fits the bill beautifully. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but doesn’t require a ton of effort. With just a blender, a pot, and a handful of fresh ingredients, you can transform everyday rice into something vibrant and memorable.
It’s also meal-prep friendly. This rice holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully with a quick splash of water and a zap in the microwave. You can even freeze it in portions for quick weekday meals or lunch bowls.
And did we mention it’s a hit at potlucks and family gatherings? The color alone grabs attention on the buffet table.
Conclusion:
Cilantro Lime Green Rice is more than just a side it’s a culinary upgrade. It takes a basic pantry staple and elevates it with fresh ingredients, thoughtful technique, and a whole lot of flavor. Whether you’re making tacos on a Tuesday night or planning a full weekend spread, this dish brings color, brightness, and a touch of the unexpected.
So the next time you’re looking for something fresh and exciting to serve with your favorite meal, skip the plain rice. Make it green. Make it bold. Make it unforgettable.