Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls

Name: Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water; 1 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional); Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a vibrant and flavorful meal with these Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-04T08:38:28.811Z

These Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls combine the zest of lime and the heat of spices to create a dish that's both satisfying and refreshing.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lime flavor that brightens every bite
Perfect balance of spice and freshness
Quick to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights

      

A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

These Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls are not just a meal; they are an experience for your taste buds. Each element is thoughtfully combined to create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The zesty lime adds a refreshing brightness, while the cilantro brings a fragrant herbaceous quality that perfectly complements the heat from the spices. Together, they create a dish that is both satisfying and invigorating.

Whether you're serving this dish at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, the vibrant colors and enticing aromas will captivate everyone around the table. The layers of texture—from creamy avocado to crunchy bell peppers—make each mouthful intriguing and delightful, ensuring that this meal is memorable for all.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of these rice bowls is their versatility. They can easily be adapted to fit a variety of occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The quick preparation time makes them ideal for busy evenings when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving.

Additionally, these bowls are a fantastic base for customization. Feel free to add your favorite proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a heartier meal. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or available in your pantry, ensuring that you can enjoy this dish year-round.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

Not only are these Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls delicious, but they also pack a nutritional punch. Jasmine rice provides a source of carbohydrates for energy, while black beans are loaded with protein and fiber, making this meal filling and satisfying. The addition of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes adds essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded diet.

Moreover, cilantro is known for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to aid digestion. Avocado, on the other hand, is a great source of healthy fats, which are important for heart health. This dish not only tastes great but also supports your overall wellness.

Ingredients for Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Bowls

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
Lime wedges for serving

Combine all ingredients to create a delicious and colorful bowl.

How to Prepare Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is cooked and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.

Mix the Cilantro Lime Rice

Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and olive oil. Set aside.

Prepare the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the cilantro lime rice, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, avocado, and cherry tomatoes. Top with jalapeño slices if desired.

Serve

Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Enjoy your Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to your bowls.

Tips for Preparation

To elevate the flavors of your Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls, consider marinating the black beans for extra taste. A simple mix of lime juice, cumin, and garlic powder can transform them into a zesty addition that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Allow the beans to sit for at least 15 minutes before adding them to your bowls.

If you prefer a milder dish, you can leave out the jalapeños or replace them with milder peppers like bell peppers or banana peppers. This way, you can still enjoy the vibrant flavors without overwhelming heat.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from these rice bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the quality of the ingredients, it's best to keep the avocado and any fresh toppings separate until you're ready to eat. This will prevent them from browning and losing their fresh texture.

When it comes time to reheat your leftovers, simply microwave the rice and beans together until warmed through. You can add a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavors before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal again without the hassle of starting from scratch!

Pairing Suggestions

These rice bowls are delicious on their own, but if you're looking for the perfect beverage to pair with them, consider a refreshing iced tea or a crisp, cold beer. A fruity mocktail can also complement the zesty flavors beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.

For a complete meal, serve your Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls with a side of tortilla chips and fresh salsa. This adds an extra crunch and a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rice bowls, making your meal even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.