Brighten up your plate with this Heart-Healthy Zesty Lime Rice, a wholesome and flavorful side dish thatβs perfect for any meal! Made with nutrient-rich brown rice simmered in low-sodium vegetable broth, this recipe is a delicious twist on a classic. It features a vibrant blend of zesty lime juice, aromatic garlic, warm cumin, and fresh cilantro, creating a burst of fresh, zesty flavors in every bite. With a drizzle of heart-smart olive oil and minimal salt, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty. Enjoy it as a light accompaniment to grilled vegetables, lean proteins, or your favorite plant-based dishes. Perfect for a quick and easy meal prep, this zesty lime rice is ready in under 45 minutes and serves four. Healthy, flavorful, and easy to make, itβs a must-try addition to your recipe rotation!
Rinse the brown rice under cold water using a fine mesh sieve to remove excess starch. This helps prevent it from becoming sticky during cooking.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed brown rice, water, and low-sodium vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
While the rice cooks, prepare the lime mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
When the rice is done, remove it from the heat and fluff it with a fork. Transfer the rice to a large mixing bowl.
Pour the lime mixture over the rice and gently toss to coat the grains evenly.
Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro, reserving a pinch for garnish if desired.
Serve warm as a side dish or as a base for heart-healthy meals like grilled veggies or lean protein.
Calories |
383 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.1 g | 21% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g | 13% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 758 mg | 33% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 54.1 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.5 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.5 g | ||
| Protein | 5.9 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 92 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 365 mg | 8% | |
*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.