If you’re looking for a healthy and low-carb side dish that’s packed with flavor, this Hearts of Palm Rice with Cilantro and Lime is a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients and a handful of minutes, you can create a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re pairing it with burrito bowls, tacos, or serving it alongside chicken or fish, this dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional rice. The cilantro and lime bring a fresh, zesty kick, making it a perfect choice for any meal.
This recipe is particularly great if you’re following a Whole30, Keto, Paleo, or gluten-free diet. It’s a super fast dish that comes together in just one pan, which means minimal cleanup—perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re in the midst of Spring cleaning. Plus, it’s an excellent addition to your Mexican dishes, offering a healthy twist on Chipotle’s famous cilantro lime rice. Whether you’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo or just need a quick and easy side dish, this recipe has got you covered.
Hearts of Palm Rice with Cilantro and Lime Recipe
Imagine a delightful dish that’s both healthy and delicious: Hearts of Palm Rice with Cilantro and Lime. This is a great alternative to regular rice, especially if you’re in a hurry and need something faster to prepare. With just 5 ingredients in 5 minutes, this dish becomes the ultimate low-carb side to any meal. I remember the first time I made this, feeling amazed at how perfectly it paired with my favorite burrito bowls. It’s not just a dish for special occasions; it works beautifully with tacos, chicken, or even fish. The zing of lime combined with fresh cilantro really elevates the flavors and makes it a perfect fit for those busy weeknights when you crave something nutritious and satisfying.
What is Hearts of Palm Rice?
Hearts of palm comes from the tender core of certain palm trees and is packed with nutrients like fiber, iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium. It has a neutral flavor that makes it an excellent vehicle for absorbing other flavors. The taste is somewhat mellow, resembling a mild artichoke, but with a slightly denser texture. When cut into small pieces that look like grains of rice, it becomes a versatile alternative to regular rice, similar to cauliflower rice but, in my opinion, even tastier.
At home, I often reach for Trader Joe’s or Palmini riced hearts of palm, both of which my local grocery store carries. If you prefer shopping online, Amazon offers various brands, including Natural Heaven. This makes it easy to find a brand that fits your taste and needs, ensuring you always have a healthy rice alternative on hand.
Key Ingredients
To make Hearts of Palm Rice with Cilantro and Lime, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Start with riced hearts of palm, which serve as the base. The fresh lime juice and its tangy zest add a burst of citrusy brightness. A handful of chopped cilantro brings a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the lime perfectly. A pinch of salt ties all the flavors together, making this dish a standout. Be sure to check the recipe card for exact amounts to get everything just right.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To make Hearts of Palm Rice with Cilantro and Lime, start by adding riced hearts of palm to a pan over medium heat. Next, add the cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until well combined, and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s warm. Finally, just serve—it’s really that simple!
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Cooking Time
Servings : 2 servings
Prep time : 5 minutes
Cooking time : 3minutes
Calories : 40kcal
Ingredients for a Delightful Dish: Hearts of Palm Rice with Cilantro and Lime 🌿
➡️ Step 1: Begin with 9 ounces of riced hearts of palm. This is your delicious and healthy base. 🌱
➡️ Step 2: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor. 🌿
➡️ Step 3: Use the zest and juice of 1 large lime to give your dish a tangy kick. 🍋
➡️ Step 4: Don’t forget to mix in ¼ teaspoon salt to enhance and balance all the flavors. 🧂
This simple yet flavorful combination is perfect for adding a delightful twist to any meal. Each ingredient works together to beautifully balance taste and nutrition, creating a dish that’s sure to please! 🍽️✨
Directions
➡️ Step 1: Begin by adding riced hearts of palm to a pan over medium heat. 🌡️
➡️ Step 2: Mix in cilantro for vibrant freshness that pairs with the hearts of palm’s subtle nuttiness. 🌿
➡️ Step 3: Pour in lime zest and lime juice to fill your kitchen with a bright, citrusy aroma. 🍋
➡️ Step 4: Add a pinch of salt to enhance and harmonize all the flavors. 🧂
➡️ Step 5: Stir until everything is well combined, and let it cook for just 2-3 minutes until it’s all warm. 🔄
➡️ Step 6: This versatile dish can be served in various delightful ways: try it in burrito bowls, with spicy tacos, or as a vibrant side to grilled chicken or fish. 🌮🍗🐟
This quick process leads to a delicious, refreshing meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy. 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions
Does cilantro lime rice have protein?
Hearts of Palm Rice with Cilantro and Lime is a tasty dish, but you might wonder if it contains protein. Typically, Cilantro-lime Rice such as the one from Chipotle offers about 2g of protein per serving, along with around 23g of carbs, 3g of fat, and totaling 130 calories. This makes it a balanced choice, providing the essential nutrients you need.
What if I can’t find hearts of palm rice?
If you can’t find hearts of palm rice at your local grocery store, don’t worry. You can check Trader Joe’s because they often have unique and health-conscious products like this. If that’s not an option, it’s easy to order hearts of palm rice online. I’ve often done this myself. But sometimes, you might want to enjoy this dish without the wait, and a great solution is to substitute it with cooked cauliflower rice or even traditional white rice. Both cooked cauliflower rice and white rice can absorb the rich flavors of cilantro and lime really well, making them excellent alternatives.
When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how versatile it became with different bases. At times when my local grocery store runs out, ordering online has been a lifesaver. But I also discovered that using white rice brings a different but equally delicious twist to this dish.
How to Eat Riced Hearts of Palm?
Hearts of Palm Rice is a delightful, grain-free option that serves as a blank canvas for a variety of dishes. You can use this prepared rice to create a satisfying grain bowl. Just add some sautéed veggies and a protein like tofu or chicken to make it a hearty meal. One of my favorite ways to enjoy this is by dressing it with a tangy Green Goddess Salad Dressing. The combination of fresh flavors and diverse ingredients makes each bite exciting.
How to Keep and Reheat It?
You can store your Hearts of Palm Rice in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for 3 or 4 days. To reheat, either use a pan over medium heat for 2 or 3 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for about 1 minute.
Are Hearts of Palm Rice Good for You?
Hearts of Palm Rice is a fantastic and healthy option for those looking to manage their weight or are on weight loss programs. This rice is impressively low in calories, carbohydrates, and fats, making it ideal for health-conscious individuals. Additionally, it boasts a high content of plant-based protein, water, and fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied.