This Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice is a vibrant, zesty side dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Fluffy, fragrant rice is infused with bright lime and fresh cilantro, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. The quick cooking time ensures a tender texture without the fuss, while the tangy, herbaceous notes elevate even the simplest meals.
With only 181 calories per serving, this dish is as light as it is satisfying. The subtle citrus tang pairs beautifully with the earthy cilantro, offering a refreshing contrast to rich main courses. Whether you’re pairing it with tacos or enjoying it solo, this rice is a crowd-pleaser that’s both effortless and delicious.
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- 1½ cups basmati rice (rinsed until water runs clear for best texture)
- 1½ cups water (adjust slightly if using a different type of rice)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 Tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor, or bottled works in a pinch)
- ½ Tablespoon olive oil (or substitute with avocado oil)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (stems included for extra flavor, or substitute with parsley if cilantro isn’t your thing)
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pressure cooker: Add the rinsed rice, water, salt, and lime juice to the bowl of your pressure cooker. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook the rice: Seal the pressure cooker and set it to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- Release the pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 12 minutes. Then, manually release any remaining pressure.
- Fluff and finish: Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the olive oil and chopped cilantro. Taste and add extra lime juice if desired.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite protein. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or burritos!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. Try it alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or black bean enchiladas for a fresh, zesty twist. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of guacamole or pico de gallo and a squeeze of extra lime juice for added brightness.
Storing and Reheating Made Easy
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the rice and microwave in 30-second intervals, fluffing with a fork between each. Alternatively, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to restore its fluffy texture.
Customize It: Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Swap the basmati rice for jasmine rice or brown rice (adjust cooking time accordingly). Add a kick of heat with chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder. For a creamier version, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk before serving. The possibilities are endless!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, prep your cilantro and lime juice ahead of time and store them in the fridge. If you’re using a rice cooker instead of an Instant Pot, follow the same water-to-rice ratio and cooking instructions. For even faster prep, consider using pre-washed rice to skip the rinsing step.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use bottled lime juice? Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch. What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? No problem! Use a stovetop pressure cooker or a rice cooker with the same measurements. Can I freeze this rice? Yes! Freeze in portion-sized bags for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Equipment
- pressure cooker
Ingredients
- 1½ cups basmati rice
- 1½ cups water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 Tablespoons lime juice
- ½ Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Fill the pressure cooker. Add the rice, water, salt, and lime juice to the bowl of a pressure cooker. Give everything a stir.
- Seal the pressure cooker and set to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- When the pressure cooker is done cooking, allow the pressure to naturally release for 12 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the olive oil and fresh cilantro. Feel free to add extra lime juice to taste.