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Easy Pineapple Lime Rice Recipe (with cilantro)

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A vibrant and flavorful side dish combining sweet pineapple, tangy lime, and fresh cilantro, perfect for tropical, Hawaiian, or Latin-inspired meals.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons butter

½ medium onion, diced

½ tablespoon garlic, minced

2 cups long-grain white rice

1 cup pineapple juice

1 ½ – 2 cups water (depending on cooking method)

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup pineapple, diced (¼ inch pieces; canned or fresh)

Lime zest from 1-2 limes

Lime juice from 1-2 limes

½ cup cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Instant Pot: Select the “saute” option. Melt butter and sauté onions and garlic for 3-5 minutes until onions are translucent.
  2. Add rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat with butter.
  3. Add pineapple juice, 1 ½ cups water, salt, pineapple, and lime zest. Seal the Instant Pot, turn vent to “sealing,” and press the “rice” button.
  4. After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then release remaining steam manually.
  5. Open lid, stir in cilantro and lime juice, and fluff the rice with a fork.
  6. Stovetop: Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat. Melt butter, sauté onions and garlic 3-5 minutes until translucent.
  7. Add rice and toast 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat.
  8. Heat pineapple juice and 2 cups water until very hot.
  9. Add hot liquids, salt, pineapple, and lime zest to the pan. Cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes until rice is tender.
  10. Remove lid, stir in lime juice and cilantro, and fluff rice with a fork.

Notes

  • Use brown rice for nuttier flavor and more fiber; increase cooking time accordingly.
  • Add diced jalapeño or chili flakes for spice.
  • Stir in toasted shredded coconut for extra tropical flair.
  • Substitute fresh pineapple with canned tidbits or crushed pineapple (drain juice to use).
  • Garnish with chopped green onions or toasted nuts like cashews for texture.
  • Store leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days refrigerated; reheat with splash of water.
  • Freeze by spreading cooled rice on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer-safe container.
  • Add fresh cilantro and lime juice after reheating for best flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/easy-pineapple-lime-rice-recipe-with-cilantro/