In the midst of my Mexican obsession last week, I re-created the cilantro lime rice from Chipotle and gave it a healthy twist.

The rice tasted VERY similar to Chipotle’s.  I was surprised!

I upped the nutritional value by replacing white rice for long grain brown rice.  Here are some quick facts.

Brown Rice vs. White Rice

Comparing 1 cup of cooked brown rice to 1 cup of cooked white rice, brown rice has:

• Over 10% less calories
• Over 5 times as much fiber
• About 23% less net carbohydrates
• 20% more protein
• More vitamins and minerals
• Lots of other health benefits

Pretty impressive, huh?

But without further ado…

Cilantro Lime Rice

Ingredients:

1 cup long grain brown rice

2 1/4 cups water

1 tbls olive oil

1 tsp salt

Juice of 1 large lime

Large handful of cilantro, chopped

Directions:

Bring water to a boil and add rice.  Reduce heat until at a simmer.  Cover* and cook for about 45 minutes.  Do not stir.  Once time has elapsed, test with a fork by inserting gently and scraping the bottom of the pot a little.  You want the rice to stick just a little to know the water is completely absorbed.

Once rice is cooked, stir in remaining ingredients.

*I leave the lid slightly ajar so there is a small gap for steam to escape.

The cilantro and lime flavors are subtle so the rice can be used for a lot of things – paired with refried beans as a side to tacos, use in stuffed peppers with a Mexican twist, wrapped up in a burrito, or just plain!

-Lauren