Description
This Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice recipe combines fluffy long-grain rice with creamy mashed avocado, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime for a vibrant and flavorful side dish. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, tacos, or as a filling in burrito bowls, this dish is easy to prepare in under 30 minutes and offers a fresh twist on classic rice dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Cooking Liquid
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Avocado Mixture
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lime (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.
- Mash the Avocado: While the rice is cooking, place the ripe avocado in a small bowl and mash it with a fork until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Combine the Rice and Avocado: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork to separate the grains. Add the mashed avocado to the rice and gently stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Add Cilantro and Lime: Stir in the chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and lime zest if using. Mix thoroughly and season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Serve: Serve the avocado cilantro lime rice warm as a side dish or use it as a base for burrito bowls, tacos, or alongside grilled meats for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a healthier twist, use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase cooking time according to package instructions.
- Lime zest is optional but adds an extra layer of fresh citrus flavor.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the avocado less thoroughly.
- This dish pairs well with Mexican and Southwestern flavors like grilled chicken, beef, or roasted vegetables.
- Leftover rice can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; stir well before reheating.
