Cilantro rice – a staple in many cuisines around the world. But why settle for just any ordinary cilantro rice when you can elevate it to new heights with bold flavors and exciting ingredients? From savory pairings like garlic and roasted vegetables, to sweet and tangy combinations like coconut and mango salsa, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering cilantro rice recipes that will take your meals from bland to grand. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and adventurous or comforting and familiar, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
**Get ready to explore a world of flavor with our collection of cilantro rice recipes!**
Cilantro lime rice with black beans
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil or butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
6. Add the water, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in the black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic cilantro rice with roasted vegetables
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the pungency of garlic, the freshness of cilantro, and the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts) for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. In a small skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add chopped cilantro to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in garlic-cilantro mixture.
6. Roast vegetables in the oven according to their cooking time (typically 20-25 minutes).
7. Serve roasted vegetables alongside garlic cilantro rice.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut cilantro rice with mango salsa
This recipe combines the creamy flavors of coconut and cilantro with the sweetness of mango to create a unique and delicious dish perfect for a tropical-inspired meal or party.
Ingredients:
For the rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using coconut milk instead of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Stir in chopped cilantro and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Combine cooked rice and cilantro mixture.
5. Prepare mango salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
6. Serve coconut cilantro rice with mango salsa on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy cilantro rice with grilled chicken
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the bold flavors of cilantro, chili peppers, and grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Cooking spray or olive oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff cooked rice into the skillet; stir to combine with spice mixture.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill chicken breasts until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side).
7. Serve grilled chicken atop Spicy Cilantro Rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro rice and shrimp stir-fry
This vibrant dish combines the freshness of cilantro with the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a flavorful stir-fry. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this mouthwatering meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and grated ginger. Pour the mixture over the shrimp and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and mix in chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican cilantro rice with corn and peppers
A flavorful and vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Add the water, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro rice stuffed bell peppers
This flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the freshness of cilantro and the comfort of rice, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is lightly browned.
7. Sprinkle with shredded cheese (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cilantro rice and avocado salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the savory taste of cilantro-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice and chopped cilantro.
3. Cut the avocado into small pieces and add to the bowl.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for rice)
Jasmine cilantro rice with lemongrass
This aromatic rice dish combines the sweetness of jasmine rice with the brightness of lemongrass and the freshness of cilantro. Perfect as a side dish or base for various Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, add lemongrass, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in chopped cilantro, oil, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cilantro rice with grilled salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and nutritious dish, featuring the brightness of cilantro and the richness of grilled salmon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped cilantro and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Stir the cooked cilantro into the cooked rice, adding lime juice and salt to taste.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve the grilled salmon atop the cilantro rice, with a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time:
– Rice: 20-25 minutes
– Salmon: 8-12 minutes
Cilantro rice and blackened tofu
This flavorful dish combines the bright, citrusy notes of cilantro with the savory richness of blackened tofu, all wrapped up in a deliciously aromatic rice bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and blacken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until crispy.
3. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the soy sauce, lime juice, and cumin to the same pan and stir to combine.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve the blackened tofu on top of the cilantro rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro rice with pineapple and cashews
This flavorful side dish combines the freshness of cilantro with the sweetness of pineapple and crunch of cashews, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro, diced pineapple, and cashews. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro rice and chorizo skillet
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this simple and satisfying skillet dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
5. Add the cooked chorizo back into the skillet and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro rice with roasted poblano peppers
A flavorful Mexican-inspired side dish that combines the freshness of cilantro with the smokiness of roasted poblanos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large poblano pepper, roasted (see roasting instructions below)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir chopped cilantro into the cooked rice. Fluff with a fork to combine.
5. Squeeze roasted poblano pepper’s flesh into the rice mixture, discarding seeds and skin.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Roasting Instructions:
1. Place poblano pepper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes or until skin is charred and blistered.
3. Remove from oven, let cool, then peel off skin, and slice flesh into thin strips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro rice and black bean burritos
Elevate your burrito game with this flavorful recipe that combines the freshness of cilantro with the heartiness of black beans. This vegan-friendly dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add cumin and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in black beans and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble burritos by spooning rice mixture onto tortillas, followed by black bean filling.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro rice with grilled zucchini
Brighten up your meal with the freshness of cilantro and the smoky flavor of grilled zucchini. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the zucchini slices to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro.
5. Serve the grilled zucchini alongside the cilantro rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro rice and lime-marinated steak
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful combination of cilantro-infused rice and tender lime-marinated steak.
Ingredients:
For the Cilantro Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
For the Lime-Marinated Steak:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped cilantro and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir cooked rice into the skillet with the cilantro mixture. Season with salt to taste.
4. For the steak, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil in a shallow dish.
5. Place steak in the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
6. Grill or pan-fry the steak to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time:
– Cilantro Rice: 15-20 minutes
– Lime-Marinated Steak: 4-5 minutes per side (depending on thickness)
Cilantro rice with caramelized onions
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a base for various salads.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the rice and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- In a separate skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the cilantro rice alongside the caramelized onions.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of cilantro rice recipes! With 18 mouth-watering options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. From classic Mexican-inspired dishes like Mexican cilantro rice with corn and peppers, to more adventurous combinations like coconut cilantro rice with mango salsa, there’s a recipe for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy grilled chicken or fresh seafood, these flavorful recipes are sure to delight. So go ahead, get creative, and let the aroma of cilantro fill your kitchen!