Speedy Cilantro Lime Mexican Rice
This Speedy Cilantro Lime Mexican Rice is the perfect quick side dish to elevate your favorite Mexican meals, even on the busiest weeknights. With its fluffy texture and vibrant flavors from fresh cilantro and lime, this dish is not just a quick fix but a delightful addition to your dinner table. The combination of Minute Rice and a savory Sazon Goya seasoning creates a delicious profile that complements tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats beautifully. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for those rushed nights when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal. Feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to fit your taste preference!
4
Servings
90
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Minute Rice
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
Water
1 1/2 cups (measured)
Butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Onion
1/4 cup (diced)
Sazon Goya with Tomato and Coriander
1 (1/4 ounce) envelope (packaged seasoning)
Fresh Cilantro
1/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a 2-quart microwave-safe bowl, combine the Minute Rice, water, butter, salt, diced onion, and Sazon Goya seasoning.
2
Stir the mixture to ensure the rice and seasonings are evenly distributed.
3
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small opening for steam to escape).
4
Microwave on high for 5 minutes. After the time is up, remove the bowl carefully (it will be hot!) and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the remaining moisture.
5
Once the rice has rested, uncover and fluff with a fork.
6
Gently fold in the chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
10g
Carbs
1.5g
Protein
0.25g
Fiber
0.25g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Speedy Cilantro Lime Mexican Rice?
It is a quick 15-minute side dish made with Minute Rice, Sazon Goya seasoning, and fresh cilantro.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The total time is approximately 15 minutes, including 5 minutes of microwaving and 5 minutes of resting.
What type of rice is required?
This recipe specifically uses 1 1/2 cups of uncooked Minute Rice for a fast cooking time.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
There are approximately 90 calories in each serving of this Mexican rice.
What size bowl should I use for cooking?
A 2-quart microwave-safe bowl is recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to cover the rice while microwaving?
Yes, cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small opening for steam to escape.
How long should the rice microwave?
Microwave the rice mixture on high for 5 minutes.
Why must the rice sit for 5 minutes after cooking?
Resting allows the rice to fully absorb the remaining moisture and achieve the proper fluffy texture.
When do I add the fresh cilantro?
Gently fold in the chopped cilantro after the rice has rested and been fluffed with a fork.
What seasoning gives this rice its flavor?
The primary flavor comes from one envelope of Sazon Goya with Tomato and Coriander.
What is the ratio of water to rice?
The recipe uses an equal ratio of 1 1/2 cups of water to 1 1/2 cups of Minute Rice.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Does this recipe include onion?
Yes, it includes 1/4 cup of diced onion which is cooked along with the rice.
What should I serve with this rice?
It pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
How much fat is in each serving?
Each serving contains about 4.5g of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this rice have?
Each serving provides 1.5g of protein.
Is there fiber in this dish?
Yes, there is a small amount of fiber, approximately 0.25g per serving.
What is the sugar content?
The rice contains approximately 0.25g of sugar per serving.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the additional 1/2 teaspoon of salt to compensate.
How do I make the rice fluffy?
Once the rice has rested for 5 minutes, use a fork to gently fluff it before adding cilantro.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy weeknight?
Absolutely, it is a lifesaver for rushed nights as it is ready in just 15 minutes.
What preparation is needed for the cilantro?
The cilantro should be fresh and finely chopped before being folded into the rice.
Does the recipe use fresh lime?
While not in the ingredient list, the description notes lime flavors; you can add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra vibrancy.
Is the onion cooked before adding to the rice?
No, the diced onion is stirred into the raw rice and water mixture and cooks in the microwave.
Can I adjust the seasonings?
Yes, you can feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to fit your specific taste preferences.
What kind of Sazon Goya is used?
The recipe specifies using the 'with Tomato and Coriander' variety of Sazon Goya.
Is this rice spicy?
The Sazon Goya provides savory flavor rather than heat, making it a mild dish suitable for families.
Is this a homemade meal?
Yes, it is a quick way to enjoy a homemade side dish even when you are short on time.