Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice

If you’re looking for a side dish that takes your meal to the next level, Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice is your new best friend. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with zesty flavors that complement almost any main dish. The creamy avocado combined with the tangy lime and aromatic cilantro creates a perfect balance of flavors that makes this rice incredibly addictive. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, tacos, or a simple salad, this rice is going to steal the show. Trust me, it’s so easy to make, and once you try it, you’ll never want regular rice again!

Why You’ll Love Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice

This dish has so many great qualities that will make it your go-to side for almost any occasion. Here’s why it’s such a crowd-pleaser:

Fresh and Flavorful

The creamy avocado, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro bring so much vibrancy to the rice. It’s not your typical side dish—it’s a burst of fresh, herbaceous goodness that pairs beautifully with so many different types of dishes.

Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. It’s so simple to prepare, yet it feels like you’re serving something extra-special.

Customizable

Feel free to adjust the flavor to your liking! Want a little extra kick? Add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can even make it creamy by adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra layer of richness.

Healthy and Nourishing

Packed with healthy fats from the avocado and loaded with fresh ingredients, this rice is not only tasty but also a nutritious side dish. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so it works for a wide variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and mashed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• Zest of 1 lime (optional for extra lime flavor)

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. You can use any type of rice you like, but long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works great for this recipe. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado

While the rice is cooling, mash the avocado in a bowl. You can leave it a bit chunky or mash it until smooth—whichever texture you prefer.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, mashed avocado, olive oil, cilantro, lime juice, lime zest (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated and the flavors are well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more lime juice or salt to your liking.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the rice immediately as a side dish or as a base for bowls, tacos, or burritos. Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge for a fresh, colorful presentation!

(Note: The full instructions, including specific times, are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 220 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 250mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice

This zesty rice can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to help elevate your meal:

As a Side Dish

Serve it alongside your favorite grilled proteins like chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced, flavorful meal. It’s especially delicious with grilled shrimp or barbecue chicken!

In Burrito Bowls

Top this rice with your favorite toppings like black beans, corn, salsa, and guacamole to make a delicious and satisfying burrito bowl. You can even add a dollop of sour cream or salsa verde for extra flavor.

With Tacos or Quesadillas

This rice is a great accompaniment to any taco or quesadilla. It pairs perfectly with fish tacos, chicken tacos, or even veggie fajitas.

As a Meal-Prep Item

This rice makes an amazing meal-prep component! You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it with various meals throughout the week. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you make the most of this delicious side dish:

• For Extra Creaminess: Add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the rice for an even richer texture.
• Customize with Heat: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Use Brown Rice: If you’re looking for a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white rice. It’ll add a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
• Make It Smoky: For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a bit of chipotle powder.

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this rice ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This rice can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Q2: Can I use frozen rice for this recipe?
A2: Absolutely! Frozen rice works great in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and heat it before mixing with the avocado and other ingredients.

Q3: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A3: Yes! To add some heat, you can stir in finely chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Q4: What kind of rice should I use?
A4: Jasmine rice or long-grain white rice works best, but you can use brown rice, basmati rice, or any other variety you prefer.

Q5: Can I make this rice without cilantro?
A5: Of course! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can skip it or replace it with parsley, green onions, or even basil for a different flavor.

Q6: Can I freeze this rice?
A6: Yes! You can freeze the rice for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.

Q7: How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
A7: To prevent the avocado from browning, add lime juice to the mashed avocado as soon as possible, and mix it into the rice immediately.

Q8: Can I add beans or other vegetables to this rice?
A8: Absolutely! Adding black beans, corn, or even diced tomatoes would be a great way to bulk up the rice and add more flavor.

Q9: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A9: Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be enjoyed by anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Q10: Can I make this rice creamy without using avocado?
A10: Yes, you can add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the rice for creaminess if you prefer a non-avocado version.

Conclusion

Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice is a flavorful and fresh side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy texture, zesty lime, and fragrant cilantro, this rice is anything but boring. It’s so simple to make, yet so packed with flavor that it will steal the spotlight at your dinner table. Whether you’re serving it with tacos, grilled meats, or just enjoying it on its own, this rice will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

Print