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Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl

A vibrant Cilantro Lime Rice Bowl featuring fluffy citrus-infused rice, fresh vegetables, and optional proteins for a delicious, customizable meal ideal for lunch, dinner, or weekly meal prep.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: american fusion, mexican inspired
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the Cilantro Lime Rice
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder optional
Suggested Bowl Toppings
  • Feel free to mix and match based on your preference.
  • 1 cup black beans or pinto beans
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 avocado sliced or diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • ½ cup pico de gallo or salsa
  • 1 cup grilled chicken shrimp, or tofu
  • Fresh jalapeño slices optional
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Lime wedges
For a Simple Lime Dressing
  • Optional but highly recommended
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey or agave
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of pepper

Equipment

  • Saucepan or rice cooker
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fork for fluffing rice
  • Serving bowls
  • Skillet (optional for add-ins)

Method
 

Prepare the Rice
  1. Cook jasmine or basmati rice according to package directions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and spread slightly to cool. This prevents clumping and keeps the rice fluffy.
Add the Lime and Cilantro
  1. In a bowl, combine the rice with lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, olive oil (or butter), salt, and garlic powder (optional). Mix gently to avoid crushing the grains.
Prep Your Toppings
  1. Slice the avocado, chop the vegetables, warm the beans, grill your protein, or roast veggies—whatever toppings you prefer.
Assemble the Bowls
  1. Divide the cilantro lime rice among serving bowls. Add beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, lettuce, pico de gallo, or any other toppings you enjoy.
Add Dressing and Garnishes
  1. Drizzle with the simple lime dressing or your favorite sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro, jalapeños, or lime wedges.
Serve Immediately
  1. These bowls are excellent served warm, room temperature, or cold—perfect for meal prep and busy days.