Elevate your side dish game with this irresistible Cafe Rio Rice, a flavorful twist on traditional white rice that's bursting with zesty, herby goodness. Infused with fresh lime juice, aromatic garlic, and vibrant cilantro, this recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare and delivers bold, restaurant-quality flavor at home. Cooked to perfection with a hint of chicken bouillon and the richness of butter, this tender, fluffy rice is finished with a touch of sugar to balance the tangy and savory elements. Whether served alongside tacos, in burrito bowls, or as a standalone side, this cilantro lime rice will quickly become a family favorite. Perfect for Taco Tuesdays or any time you crave a touch of Tex-Mex-inspired deliciousness!
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
In a medium saucepan, add the water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, stir in the chicken bouillon powder and butter until dissolved.
Add the rinsed rice to the boiling water, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, prepare the flavor mixture: In a small bowl, combine lime juice, chopped cilantro, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine.
Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.
Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently stir in the cilantro-lime mixture until evenly distributed.
Serve warm as a side dish or as part of a burrito bowl or taco meal!
Calories |
661 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 25.0 g | 32% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.0 g | 65% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 1086 mg | 47% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 99.4 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.3 g | ||
| Protein | 10.7 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 128 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 343 mg | 7% | |
*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.