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A bowl of coconut lime rice with chopped cilantro and chili flakes.
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Easy Coconut Lime Rice Recipe

This coconut lime rice recipe adds a quick flavor boost to your favorite type of rice and can be made using leftover rice. It’s vegan and gluten-free, with easy prep and no added coconut milk.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Vegan
Servings: 6
Calories: 196kcal
Author: Denise Perrault

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups rice (see note 1)
  • 1 medium lime zest and juice (or ¼ cup lime juice)
  • ¼ cup desiccated coconut (or shredded coconut or coconut flakes)
  • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
  • ¼ cup cilantro chopped (optional)
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Rinse the rice in a mesh strainer to remove excess starch and packaging dust.
  • Cook the rice according to the package directions either on the stovetop or in a rice cooker (see notes for Instant Pot instructions).
  • When the rice is done, remove the pan from the heat and add the coconut, lime juice and zest, the red chili flakes, and chopped cilantro. Mix well and cover the pot. Let the rice sit for 5 minutes.
  • Fluff the rice and serve.

Notes

  1. I made this recipe using brown basmati rice, but you can use any rice you prefer, including jasmine or long-grain white rice.
  2. The total time to make this recipe depends on how long it takes your rice to cook. Consult the package directions for the exact cooking time.
  3. To use this recipe with leftover rice, first reheat the rice in a steamer basket until it is piping hot. Transfer the rice to a bowl and mix in the remaining ingredients. Cover the bowl and let it stand for 5-10 minutes. Stir and serve.
  4. To store, cool the rice (up to 2 hours), then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.
  5. Reheat cooked rice only once for food safety reasons. I prefer steaming rice to reheat it, or reheat it in the microwave, adding a little water.
  6. ​For added protein, try this recipe using quinoa, or for a nuttier flavor, add toasted sesame seeds. 

Nutrition

Calories: 196kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 91mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 100IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg