Easy Cilantro Coconut Rice
This easy cilantro coconut rice is light, fluffy, and full of fresh flavor. It’s an easy side dish that pairs with almost anything, from thai chicken meatballs to glazed salmon, and comes together with minimal effort.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS
- Simple but flavorful – coconut milk, cilantro and lime do most of the work.
- Perfect side dish – works with chicken, fish, or vegetarian meals
- Soft and fluffy texture – not sticky or heavy
- Easy to customize – adjust lime, salt, or cilantro to taste
WHAT IS CILANTRO COCONUT RICE?
This cilantro coconut rice is a simple rice dish inspired by tropical and Southeast Asian flavors, where coconut milk is often used to cook rice for extra richness.
My version leans a bit fresher and lighter. I add lime zest and juice at the end to balance the richness of the coconut milk. I tested a few ratios and this one keeps the rice soft and fragrant without feeling too heavy.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Please note: This is just an overview – the full ingredients and directions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Step 2: Cook the rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed.
Step 2: Let it rest
Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This step makes a big difference in texture.
Step 3: Add the flavor
Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently mix in lime zest, lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
NOTES FROM MY KITCHEN
This is one of those sides I make when I want something a little more interesting than plain rice but still very easy. It goes really well with anything grilled, especially chicken or shrimp.
If I’m cooking for my family, I sometimes go lighter on the cilantro and add more lime instead. It keeps the flavor fresh but a bit more neutral.
I also noticed that using full-fat coconut milk makes a big difference here. The light version works, but the flavor isn’t as round and creamy.
Other side dish recipes you’ll enjoy…
Easy Cilantro Coconut Rice
This easy cilantro coconut rice is light, fluffy, and full of fresh flavor. It’s an easy side dish that pairs with almost anything, from thai chicken meatballs to glazed salmon, and comes together with minimal effort.
4
servings5
minutes15
minutes290
kcal25
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
INGREDIENTS
1 cup (200g) long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati)
1 cup (240ml) full-fat coconut milk
1/2 cup (120ml) water
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1 tsp sugar (optional)
Zest of 1 lime
Juice of 1/2 lime (or to taste)
1/3 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
DIRECTIONS
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff gently with a fork.
- Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust salt or lime if needed.
- Serve as a side dish or as a base for bowls, grilled meats, fish, or roasted veggies.
Notes
- Servings: Serves 4 as a side dish, or 2 as a base for bowls.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk to bring back the soft texture.
- The nutrition information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Nutrition Facts
- Total number of serves: 4
- Calories: 290kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
Did you make it?
I would love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
Your feedback is valuable and helps me to continue creating delicious recipes that you will love.
So, don’t be shy, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out for you!
