Green Cilantro Rice

Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful Green Cilantro Rice, a perfect blend of fresh herbs, zesty lime, and aromatic spices. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fluffy long-grain white rice with a purée of cilantro, optional spinach for an extra pop of green, and a kick of jalapeño or serrano pepper, creating a side dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Toasted rice, infused with sautéed onions and garlic, is simmered in a savory mix of broth and cilantro puree, ensuring every bite is bursting with bold flavor. Ready in just 35 minutes, this gluten-free and versatile dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or veggie-packed bowls, making it a must-try for your next meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cilantro leaves, tightly packed
• 0.5 cup fresh spinach leaves (optional, for extra green color)
• 0.5 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic cloves
• 1 piece jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro leaves, spinach (if using), garlic, jalapeño or serrano pepper, lime juice, 0.5 cup of broth, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and set aside.

Step 3

Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and translucent.

Step 5

Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.

Step 6

Pour the cilantro mixture and remaining broth into the saucepan. Add the water and salt, and stir to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 8

Simmer the rice for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.

Step 9

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow any remaining steam to finish cooking the rice.

Step 10

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving and enjoy your Green Cilantro Rice!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1369 grams (1369.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	620

Total Fat 28.80g	37%
Saturated Fat 4.00g	20%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3381mg	147%
Total Carbohydrate 81.30g	30%
Dietary Fiber 10.90g	39%
Total Sugars 8.00g
Protein 14.80g	30%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 295mg	23%
Iron 8mg	46%
Potassium 1805mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.3%

Protein: 9.2%

Carbs: 50.5%