Elevate your everyday meals with these 18 flavorful cilantro rice variations! Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these easy recipes transform simple rice into vibrant, aromatic delights that will become instant family favorites. Get ready to discover exciting new twists that make dinner both delicious and effortless—let’s dive in!
Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans
Here’s how to make cilantro lime rice with black beans, perfect for a quick, flavorful side. Hitting the right balance of zesty lime and fresh cilantro elevates this simple dish. Follow these steps for foolproof results every time.
Ingredients
– White rice – 1 cup
– Water – 2 cups
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Lime juice – 2 tbsp
– Cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped
– Black beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and ½ tsp salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 18 minutes.
4. After 18 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and absorb any remaining liquid.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and prevent clumping.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp lime juice and 1 tbsp olive oil.
7. Pour the lime and oil mixture over the fluffed rice and stir gently to coat evenly.
8. Fold in ¼ cup chopped cilantro and 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans until well combined.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, but avoid overmixing to keep the rice light.
Offering a vibrant, zesty flavor with a tender yet firm texture, this rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a base for burrito bowls. Try topping it with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Coconut Cilantro Rice Pilaf
A perfectly fluffy coconut cilantro rice pilaf is easier than you think to make at home, with just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Always start by gathering everything you need before turning on the stove to ensure a smooth cooking process. This methodical approach guarantees consistent results every time.
Ingredients
– Jasmine rice – 1 cup
– Coconut milk – 1 cup
– Water – 1 cup
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Fresh cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
2. Combine the rinsed rice, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1 cup of water, and ½ tsp salt in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid to allow the rice to steam properly and absorb all the liquid.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming and achieve a fluffy texture.
7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains without mashing them.
8. Fold in ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro until evenly distributed.
Unbelievably fragrant and subtly sweet from the coconut milk, this pilaf has a light, fluffy texture with tender grains that hold their shape. The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that complements the richness beautifully. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish, or use it as a base for a tropical-inspired bowl with mango and black beans.
Spicy Cilantro and Jalapeno Rice
Haven’t we all been there? You want something flavorful and satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. This spicy cilantro and jalapeno rice comes together quickly and delivers a punch of flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
White rice – 1 cup
Water – 2 cups
Fresh cilantro – ½ cup, chopped
Jalapeno pepper – 1, minced
Lime juice – 2 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat for 1 minute.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden and fragrant.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and add 1 tsp of salt, then bring to a boil uncovered.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18 minutes.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming.
7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains without mashing them.
8. Fold in ½ cup of chopped fresh cilantro and 1 minced jalapeno pepper until evenly distributed.
9. Drizzle 2 tbsp of lime juice over the rice and toss gently to combine.
Let the rice rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The result is a vibrant, slightly sticky rice with a bright herbal kick from the cilantro and a subtle heat that builds with each bite. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or as a base for burrito bowls for a complete meal.
Mexican Cilantro Rice with Corn
Venturing into Mexican cuisine at home is simpler than you might think, and this cilantro rice with corn is the perfect starting point. We’ll walk through each step methodically to ensure perfect results every time. Let’s begin with gathering our minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
White rice – 1 cup
Water – 2 cups
Frozen corn – ½ cup
Fresh cilantro – ¼ cup chopped
Lime juice – 2 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup white rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat for 1 minute.
3. Add rinsed rice to saucepan and toast for 3 minutes, stirring constantly until grains turn slightly golden.
4. Pour in 2 cups water and 1 tsp salt, then bring to a rolling boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover saucepan tightly with lid, and simmer for 18 minutes without lifting lid.
6. Remove saucepan from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking rice.
7. Fluff rice gently with fork to separate grains without mashing them.
8. Stir in ½ cup frozen corn and let residual heat thaw corn for 2 minutes.
9. Fold in ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro and 2 tbsp lime juice until evenly distributed.
Gently fluffed rice pairs beautifully with the sweet corn bursts and bright cilantro-lime notes. Serve alongside grilled chicken or stuffed into burritos for a complete meal that celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors.
Cilantro and Garlic Fried Rice
Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or craving a quick, flavorful meal, this cilantro and garlic fried rice comes together in minutes with minimal ingredients. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and aromatic. Let’s walk through each step to ensure perfect results every time.
Ingredients
– Cooked white rice – 3 cups
– Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
– Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
– Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
– Cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped
Instructions
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
2. Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Tip: Toasting the garlic lightly enhances its flavor without making it bitter.
4. Add cooked white rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice for 2 minutes, ensuring it is evenly coated with the oil and garlic.
6. Pour soy sauce over the rice and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy.
7. Tip: For best texture, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated, as it fries up better than fresh rice.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro until well distributed.
9. Tip: Adding cilantro off the heat preserves its fresh, vibrant flavor and color.
10. Serve immediately while hot. A final sprinkle of extra cilantro on top adds a fresh burst, and this rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a base for a fried egg, offering a delightful contrast of savory, garlicky notes with the herbaceous finish.
Lemon-Cilantro Basmati Rice
Every home cook needs a reliable side dish that pairs beautifully with countless meals, and this lemon-cilantro basmati rice delivers exactly that with its bright, fresh flavors and fluffy texture. Essentially, it transforms simple rice into something special with minimal effort, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. Let’s walk through the process step by step to ensure perfect results every time.
Ingredients
– Basmati rice – 1 cup
– Water – 1¾ cups
– Fresh cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped
– Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat for 1 minute until it shimmers lightly.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to enhance its nutty flavor.
4. Pour in the water and add the salt, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to allow even cooking.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains without mashing them.
8. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice until evenly distributed throughout the rice.
Unbelievably fluffy and aromatic, this rice has a bright citrus kick from the lemon and a fresh herbal note from the cilantro. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or use it as a base for grain bowls topped with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of tahini for extra creativity.
Thai Basil and Cilantro Jasmine Rice
Today’s recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to your kitchen with minimal effort. This fragrant rice dish combines aromatic herbs with fluffy jasmine rice for a quick side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or stir-fries.
Ingredients
– Jasmine rice – 1 cup
– Water – 1¾ cups
– Fresh Thai basil – ¼ cup
– Fresh cilantro – 2 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup jasmine rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Combine rinsed rice, 1¾ cups water, and ½ tsp salt in a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then immediately reduce heat to low.
4. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to allow proper steam buildup.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand covered for 10 minutes to finish steaming the rice.
6. While the rice rests, finely chop ¼ cup fresh Thai basil leaves and 2 tbsp fresh cilantro stems and leaves.
7. Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork to separate the grains without mashing them.
8. Fold the chopped herbs into the hot rice until evenly distributed, serving immediately while warm.
Ready to serve, this rice boasts a fluffy texture with distinct grains that carry the bright, peppery notes of Thai basil and the fresh, citrusy punch of cilantro. For a creative twist, pack the rice into small bowls and invert onto plates for elegant molded servings, or mix in toasted peanuts for added crunch.
Cilantro Rice with Grilled Pineapple
Many home cooks overlook how simple ingredients can transform ordinary rice into a vibrant side dish. Mastering this cilantro rice with grilled pineapple requires just a few fresh components and careful attention to timing. Let’s walk through each step together to ensure perfect results every time.
Ingredients
White rice – 1 cup
Water – 2 cups
Fresh cilantro – ½ cup chopped
Lime juice – 2 tbsp
Salt – 1 tsp
Pineapple – 1 cup cubed
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup white rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Combine rinsed rice and 2 cups water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover saucepan, and simmer for 18 minutes exactly without lifting the lid.
4. Remove saucepan from heat and let rice stand covered for 5 minutes to finish steaming.
5. Fluff rice gently with a fork to separate grains without mashing them.
6. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (400°F) while rice is cooking.
7. Toss 1 cup pineapple cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil to coat evenly.
8. Grill pineapple cubes for 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized grill marks appear.
9. Tip: Don’t move pineapple during first 2 minutes to develop proper sear marks.
10. Transfer grilled pineapple to a cutting board and chop into smaller pieces if desired.
11. Add ½ cup chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp salt to the fluffed rice.
12. Gently fold ingredients together until evenly distributed using a cutting motion with your spoon.
13. Tip: Add cilantro while rice is warm to help the flavors meld together perfectly.
14. Incorporate grilled pineapple pieces into the rice mixture with minimal stirring.
15. Tip: Let rice rest for 2 minutes after mixing to allow flavors to combine before serving.
A fluffy texture contrasts beautifully with the caramelized pineapple chunks, while the bright cilantro and lime cut through the sweetness. Serve this alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a standalone dish topped with extra fresh cilantro for added freshness.
Brown Rice with Cilantro and Peanuts
Perfect for busy weeknights, this brown rice dish comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Preparing this recipe requires just a few pantry staples and simple techniques that even novice cooks can master.
Ingredients
Brown rice – 1 cup
Water – 2 cups
Salt – ½ tsp
Fresh cilantro – ¼ cup chopped
Unsalted peanuts – ¼ cup chopped
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup brown rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer for 1 minute to remove excess starch.
2. Combine rinsed rice, 2 cups water, and ½ tsp salt in a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce heat to low.
4. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 45 minutes without lifting the lid (tip: setting a timer ensures perfect doneness).
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand covered for 10 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking the rice.
6. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains (tip: using a fork instead of a spoon prevents mushy rice).
7. Fold in ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro and ¼ cup chopped unsalted peanuts until evenly distributed.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving (tip: toasting the peanuts in a dry skillet for 3 minutes beforehand enhances their nutty flavor).
Great served warm or at room temperature, this dish features fluffy rice with a satisfying chew, bright herbal notes from cilantro, and crunchy peanut texture. Try it as a base for grilled chicken or spooned into lettuce cups for a light lunch option.
Cilantro-Lime Quinoa Rice Mix
Begin by gathering your ingredients for this simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled proteins or roasted vegetables. Building a solid foundation with proper technique ensures fluffy, aromatic results every time.
Ingredients
– Quinoa – 1 cup
– Long-grain white rice – 1 cup
– Water – 4 cups
– Fresh cilantro – ½ cup chopped
– Lime juice – 3 tbsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer for 2 minutes to remove its natural bitter coating.
2. Combine the rinsed quinoa, rice, water, and salt in a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting.
4. Cover the saucepan and simmer for exactly 18 minutes—avoid lifting the lid during cooking to prevent steam escape.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand covered for 10 minutes to allow grains to fully absorb moisture.
6. Fluff the quinoa-rice mixture gently with a fork to separate grains without mashing them.
7. Drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over the grains while still warm.
8. Fold in the chopped cilantro until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Fluffy and fragrant, this blend offers a delightful contrast between the nutty quinoa and tender rice grains. The bright citrus and herbal notes make it versatile enough to serve alongside Mexican-inspired dishes or as a base for grain bowls topped with avocado and black beans.
Creamy Cilantro Rice with Avocado
Perfect for busy weeknights, this creamy cilantro rice with avocado comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Let’s walk through each simple step to create this vibrant side dish.
Ingredients
Rice – 1 cup
Water – 2 cups
Salt – ½ tsp
Fresh cilantro – ½ cup
Avocado – 1
Lime juice – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Combine rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and ½ tsp salt in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid to allow proper steaming.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand covered for 5 minutes to finish cooking.
6. While rice rests, finely chop ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems.
7. Cut 1 avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl.
8. Mash the avocado with 2 tbsp lime juice until smooth and creamy.
9. Fluff the rested rice with a fork to separate the grains.
10. Gently fold the chopped cilantro and avocado mixture into the warm rice until fully incorporated.
Makes a wonderfully creamy side dish with bright herbal notes from the cilantro and rich texture from the avocado. Serve immediately alongside grilled chicken or fish, or use as a base for burrito bowls topped with black beans and salsa.
Toasted Coconut and Cilantro Rice
Even the simplest rice dishes can be transformed with a few thoughtful additions. Toasted Coconut and Cilantro Rice elevates plain rice into a fragrant, flavorful side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, curries, or even as a base for grain bowls. Let’s walk through each step to ensure perfect results every time.
Ingredients
– Jasmine rice – 1 cup
– Unsweetened shredded coconut – ½ cup
– Fresh cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped
– Water – 1 ¾ cups
– Salt – ½ tsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
2. Toast ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden brown and fragrant to enhance its nutty flavor.
3. Combine the rinsed rice, toasted coconut, 1 ¾ cups of water, and ½ tsp salt in a medium saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Simmer the rice for 18 minutes without lifting the lid to allow steam to build and cook the rice evenly.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming and absorb any remaining liquid.
7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains without mashing them.
8. Fold in ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro just before serving to preserve its bright color and fresh flavor.
Here, the rice is fluffy with a subtle crunch from the toasted coconut, while the cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness. Serve it alongside spicy dishes to cool the palate or use it as a base for a tropical-inspired bowl with mango and grilled shrimp.
Zesty Cilantro Rice with Red Pepper
Perfect for busy weeknights, this zesty cilantro rice with red pepper comes together in under 30 minutes. Preparing this vibrant side dish requires just a few pantry staples and minimal effort. Let’s walk through each step carefully to achieve fluffy, flavorful rice every time.
Ingredients
– Long-grain white rice – 1 cup
– Water – 2 cups
– Fresh cilantro – ½ cup, chopped
– Red bell pepper – 1 medium, diced
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
– Salt – 1 tsp
– Lime juice – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold running water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat for 1 minute.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until lightly fragrant.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and add 1 tsp of salt, then bring to a boil uncovered over high heat.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and finish cooking.
7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and release steam.
8. Fold in ½ cup of chopped fresh cilantro and 1 diced medium red bell pepper until evenly distributed.
9. Drizzle 2 tbsp of lime juice over the rice and mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Just cooked, this rice boasts a fluffy texture with bright, citrusy notes from the lime and fresh herbal hints from cilantro. The diced red pepper adds a subtle crunch and sweet contrast, making it ideal alongside grilled chicken or stuffed into burritos for a burst of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Excitingly, these cilantro rice variations offer endless possibilities to elevate your meals. We hope you’re inspired to try them, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this roundup on Pinterest for easy access. Happy cooking!
I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.
