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Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls embody the essence of freshness and flavor. This dish is a perfect marriage of zesty lime, fragrant cilantro, and nutrient-rich ingredients, making it a favorite among health-conscious food lovers. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these rice bowls offer a delightful way to enjoy a medley of flavors and textures.

Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls

Discover the vibrant and delicious world of Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls! This dish is bursting with flavor from fresh lime, cilantro, and a medley of colorful ingredients that cater to various dietary preferences. Easy to customize, these rice bowls can include proteins like grilled chicken or stay plant-based with black beans and avocado. Perfect for meal prep, they’re healthy, satisfying, and visually stunning, making them an essential recipe for any home cook. Dive into this culinary adventure today!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup jasmine rice

2 cups water or vegetable broth

2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

Zest of 1 lime

Juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup)

1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 ripe avocado, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat)

½ teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping, optional)

Tortilla chips (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Rice: In a medium-sized pot, combine the jasmine rice, water or vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15-18 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

    Prepare the Flavor Base: In a small mixing bowl, combine the lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, butter (or olive oil), cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to create a zesty sauce.

      Mix the Rice: Once the rice has rested, pour the cilantro-lime mixture over the warm rice and gently fold it in until the rice is evenly coated.

        Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the cilantro lime rice as the base. Top with black beans, corn, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños if desired.

          Add Toppings: Drizzle some sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for creaminess and sprinkle with extra cilantro and tortilla chips for crunch.

            Serve: Enjoy your zesty cilantro lime rice bowls warm, or let them cool for a refreshing dish.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings