Description
This creamy and flavorful Avocado Cilantro Lime Rice combines tender long-grain white rice with mashed ripe avocado, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime for a vibrant side dish. Perfectly seasoned and simple to prepare, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as a fresh filling in burrito bowls, offering a nutritious twist on classic rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Base
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, a pinch
Avocado Mixture
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lime (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or vegetable broth) to a boil. Add the rice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or according to package directions, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Mash the Avocado: While the rice is cooking, mash the ripe avocado in a small bowl using a fork until smooth. Set aside.
- Combine the Rice and Avocado: After the rice has rested, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Add the mashed avocado to the rice and stir until the avocado is fully incorporated, creating a creamy texture.
- Add Cilantro and Lime: Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest if using. Mix well to evenly distribute flavors and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the avocado cilantro lime rice warm as a side dish or as part of a larger meal. It complements grilled meats, tacos, burritos, or can be used as a filling in a burrito bowl.
Notes
- For a healthier option, substitute white rice with brown rice; increase cooking time accordingly.
- Using vegetable broth instead of water adds extra flavor to the rice.
- Lime zest enhances the citrus flavor but is optional.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially depending on seasoning preferences and other dishes served.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor as avocado can discolor over time.
