Published:
Jun 28th 2025
by 
Last updated: Aug 9th 2025
Fresh, zesty, and fuss-free, this Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Cooked to fluffy perfection in under 15 minutes, this vibrant side dish blends the citrusy zing of lime with the aromatic kick of cilantro. It’s a go-to rice recipe that pairs beautifully with Mahi Mahi Tacos, Enchiladas Rojas Suizas, grilled seafood, Chicken Taco Bake, and more—making it perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to fiesta spreads.
Pro Tip It’s fast, flavorful, and made entirely in one pot. This side dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, low fat, low sodium, and suitable for multiple diets, including diabetic-friendly and pescetarian.
- Rinse your rice thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure fluffiness.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
- Let the pressure release naturally to avoid mushy rice.
- Serve it alongside Mahi Mahi Tacos, Chicken Taco Bake, or Enchiladas Rojas Suizas.
- Use it as a flavorful base for burrito bowls.
- Pair with spicy mains to balance heat with freshness.
- Rice Options: Swap white rice for brown rice or jasmine rice—just adjust cook times.
- Broth Swap: Use chicken broth for a non-vegan version.
- Herb Alternatives: If you don’t like cilantro, try parsley or a combo of parsley and mint.
- Short-Term: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of water and microwave or steam gently to rehydrate.
- Use Leftovers: Mix into wraps, salads, or use as stuffing for burritos or stuffed peppers.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking.
- White Onion & Garlic – Aromatic base that builds flavor.
- Long-Grain White Rice – Cooks fluffy and separates easily in the Instant Pot.
- Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth – Adds depth and keeps it vegan.
- Kosher Salt – Balances and enhances all flavors.
- Lime Zest & Juice – Brightens up the rice with citrusy notes.
- Fresh Cilantro – Delivers the signature herbal punch.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cook time to 20–22 minutes under pressure.
Does cilantro taste like lime?
Cilantro has a robust, peppery citrus flavor that is closer to the flavor of a lemon rather than a lime.
What's the difference between cilantro and coriander?
Cilantro and coriander come from the coriander plant. The plant's leaves are called cilantro, while the seeds are called coriander.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes—freeze the cooled rice in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat with a splash of broth.
Can I make this without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely. Just simmer in a regular pot with the lid on and follow similar ingredient ratios.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice in the Instant Pot
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode and adding olive oil. Once hot, add the minced onion and garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in the long-grain white rice and pour in the vegetable broth. Cancel sauté mode, seal the lid, and set the pot to the “Rice” setting or manually pressure-cook for 4 minutes.
Allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes before venting any remaining steam. Once the lid is off, stir in kosher salt, lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately as a vibrant and flavorful side dish.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1/2 medium White Onion, minced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
2 cups dry long-grain White Rice
2 cups low-sodium Vegetable Broth
2 teaspoons Kosher Salt
Zest of 1 Lime
Juice of 1 Lime
1/2 cup fresh Cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Put the olive oil in your Instant Pot, then press sauté.
Next, add the onions and garlic to the Instant Pot and cook them for 2 minutes until they soften.
Stir in the rice and vegetable broth. Press cancel, then place the lid on the Instant Pot. Turn the valve to seal.
Press the rice setting or pressure-cook the rice for 4 minutes.
Next, allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes. Turn the valve to vent to release any remaining pressure.
Remove the lid from the Instant Pot. Add the kosher salt, lime zest, lime juice, and cilantro and toss to combine.
Place the cilantro lime rice on a serving dish and enjoy!
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Love, love this fragrant,…
Love, love this fragrant, flavorful rice, and the Instant Pot makes it all the more appealing!