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Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls are a vibrant and nutritious meal option that captures the essence of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these bowls can easily transition from a hearty weeknight dinner to a delightful meal prep solution for those busy days ahead. With a base of fluffy rice infused with the zesty notes of lime and the aromatic freshness of cilantro, this dish has garnered a reputation for being both tasty and satisfying.

Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls, a healthy and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. Featuring fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, this dish is easy to customize for meat lovers or vegetarians alike. Packed with colorful veggies, black beans, and optional toppings like avocado or grilled chicken, it’s a nutritious choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. Enjoy a satisfying bowl that’s both visually stunning and full of flavor!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Juice and zest of 1 large lime

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 clove garlic, finely minced

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 ripe avocado, sliced

1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

Optional toppings: sliced fresh jalapeños, crumbled feta cheese, dollops of sour cream, or crispy tortilla strips

Instructions
 

Cook the Rice: Begin by rinsing the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and allow to simmer for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and all the liquid has been absorbed.

    Prepare the Flavored Rice: After the rice has finished cooking, remove the saucepan from heat. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper. Pour this zesty mixture over the warm rice and gently fluff with a fork to ensure even distribution of the flavors.

      Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, start by adding a generous scoop of the cilantro lime rice as the base. Layer on top the black beans, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh avocado slices, and corn, arranging them in a visually appealing manner.

        Add Optional Toppings: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkle sliced jalapeños over the bowls. To introduce creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or some crumbled feta cheese. For a delightful crunch, finish with crispy tortilla strips on top.

          Garnish: To elevate the presentation, garnish your rice bowls with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, adding a pop of color and freshness.

            Serve and Enjoy: These vibrant rice bowls are delicious served warm, but they also make for a refreshing cold meal. Savor the bold flavors and enjoy this delightful dish!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 35 min | Serves 4