Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Where have you been all my life?” I exclaimed as the first forkful of Mango Lime Rice hit my palate, awakening my taste buds with a dance of sweet mango and zesty lime. This refreshing tropical side dish is a vibrant addition to any meal, perfect for family barbecues or a cozy weeknight gathering. Not only is it quick to whip up, making kitchen time a breeze, but it’s also a versatile recipe that can easily accommodate vegan and gluten-free diets. Whether you’re using fluffy basmati rice or opting for a low-carb switch like quinoa, this dish offers an exciting flavor profile that gleams with fresh herbs and a splash of citrus. Curious about how you can tweak this recipe to suit your taste? Let’s dive into this delightful journey of flavors together! Why is Mango Lime Rice a Must-Try? Bright, Flavorful Party Pleaser: This Mango Lime Rice is a showstopper at any gathering, bursting with vibrant flavors that will impress your guests. Customizable Creativity: With options to switch grains or add proteins, like grilled chicken or shrimp, this dish is perfect for any dietary needs. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe saves you time while delivering a deliciously satisfying side. Tropical Escape: Experience a mini-vacation with every bite, thanks to the tropical sweetness of mango complemented by zesty lime. Health-Conscious Delight: Both vegan and gluten-free-friendly, it’s a guilt-free option that stands out from typical fast food. Pair it with Spicy Salmon Rice for a flavorful feast or enjoy it alongside Mango Cookies Delightful for dessert! Mango Lime Rice Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create this refreshing dish! For the Rice Basmati Rice – Provides a fluffy texture and is a great source of carbohydrates. Note: Can substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Water or Vegetable Broth – Ideal for cooking the rice; using vegetable broth adds an extra layer of flavor. For the Flavor Ripe Mango – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with canned mango if fresh is unavailable, adjusting quantity to avoid excess moisture. Lime (Zest and Juice) – Offers a zesty tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of mango; fresh limes are recommended for the best taste. Fresh Cilantro – Infuses freshness and a burst of flavor; can be substituted with herbs like mint or basil for a different profile. For Richness Olive Oil or Coconut Oil – Adds richness to the dish; choose based on your flavor preference. For Seasoning Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for a delightful touch that brings out all the flavors. Now that you have everything prepped, you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect Mango Lime Rice! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mango Lime Rice Step 1: Rinse the Rice Begin by rinsing 1 cup of basmati rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer for about 2-3 minutes until the water runs clear. This crucial step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky. Set aside the rinsed rice, and you’re ready for the next phase of making your refreshing Mango Lime Rice. Step 2: Cook the Rice In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed basmati rice with 1¾ cups of water or vegetable broth and a pinch of salt. Place over medium-high heat, bringing it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. The rice is done when all the liquid is absorbed, and it appears fluffy and tender. Step 3: Let the Rice Sit After the rice has finished cooking, remove it from heat without lifting the lid and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to steam and achieve a light, fluffy texture. Once ready, gently fluff the rice with a fork, making it perfect for your delicious Mango Lime Rice dish. Step 4: Prepare the Mango and Lime While the rice is cooking, take a ripe mango and carefully dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. Zest one lime and then squeeze its juice into a bowl, ensuring to catch any seeds. The sweetness of the mango combined with the zesty flavors of lime will complement the cooked rice beautifully. Step 5: Mix Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffed basmati rice, diced mango, lime zest, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Add roughly 2 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil for richness. Toss all the ingredients gently together until well combined, making sure not to mash the mango pieces; this step brings the vibrant Mango Lime Rice to life. Step 6: Finish and Serve Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for the perfect flavor balance. Serve your Mango Lime Rice in a lovely dish, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a delightful presentation. Enjoy this refreshing side dish alongside your favorite grilled proteins or as a standalone treat! Mango Lime Rice Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful tweaks and substitutions for your Mango Lime Rice! Low-Carb Option: Swap basmati rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to make this dish low-carb and just as delicious. Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Protein Punch: Mix in grilled chicken or shrimp to elevate this side dish into a satisfying main course. The protein adds substance, making it perfect for hearty appetites. Coconut Infusion: Replace olive oil with coconut oil for a tropical vibe that enhances the mango’s sweetness and adds richness to every bite. Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to deepen the citrus flavor and brighten the dish with an extra layer of tropical goodness. Herb Lovers: Instead of cilantro, use fresh mint or basil for a unique twist that brings a refreshing flavor and fragrant aroma. Tropical Fruit Medley: Incorporate diced pineapple or papaya along with the mango for a sweet, colorful fruit salad vibe that’s a feast for the senses! Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some toasted almonds or cashews for a delightful crunch and extra texture that balances the soft, fluffy rice. For inspiration, you can also try this dish alongside Spicy Salmon Rice or pair it with a sweet treat like Mango Cookies Delightful for a complete meal experience! Make Ahead Options Mango Lime Rice is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the basmati rice and dice the ripe mango up to 24 hours in advance, keeping the mango in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, the seasoned cooked rice can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, gently mix the rice with the mango, lime zest, lime juice, and optional herbs for a delightful burst of flavor. Following these prep instructions allows you to enjoy the same delicious Mango Lime Rice with minimal last-minute effort, making it a breeze to elevate your meals! Expert Tips for Mango Lime Rice Rinse Thoroughly: Rinsing the basmati rice until the water runs clear is essential to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness. Optimal Liquid Ratio: Use 1¾ cups of water or vegetable broth for every cup of rice. Too much liquid can make the rice gummy. Resting Time: Allowing the cooked rice to rest covered for 5 minutes before fluffing helps achieve a light and fluffy texture, perfect for Mango Lime Rice. Customize Your Flavors: Experiment with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or add spices such as cayenne for a kick. This dish is entirely adaptable! Store Wisely: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and blend beautifully over time. Watch Cooking Times: If substituting rice with quinoa or cauliflower, be mindful that cooking times will differ, so check for doneness accordingly. What to Serve with Mango Lime Rice Enhance your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this tropical dish. Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken provides a savory contrast to the sweet mango and tangy lime, making it a perfect protein addition. Blackened Fish Tacos: The spiciness of blackened fish wrapped in a soft taco shell pairs beautifully with the refreshing mango lime rice. Chilled Avocado Soup: Cool, creamy avocado soup offers a refreshing counterpart, making every bite a burst of flavor. Roasted Vegetables: Mixed, caramelized seasonal veggies bring a hearty touch and grounding earthiness that balances the dish’s brightness. Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy fruits enhances the dish’s tropical vibe, creating a colorful and refreshing contrast. Sparkling Water with Lime: Staying hydrated never tasted so good! A splash of lime elevates sparkling water to a refreshing drink alongside your meal. Mango Coconut Sorbet: To finish on a sweet note, this dessert mirrors the flavors of the rice, creating a delightful theme throughout the meal. Cilantro Lime Grilled Shrimp: Infusing shrimp with cilantro and lime creates a delicious seafood pairing, bringing out the rice’s flavors perfectly. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These hearty yet light-filled peppers are a delightful way to add some protein and veggies alongside your Mango Lime Rice meal. Pineapple Salsa: A zesty salsa brightens up grilled proteins and adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang alongside the rice. Storage Tips for Mango Lime Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This is a great option as the flavors meld beautifully over time. Freezer: If you wish to freeze your Mango Lime Rice, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring it’s well-sealed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy your stored rice, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water to restore moisture. Make-Ahead: For a fresh mango taste, prepare the rice and mango separately, combining them just before serving. This helps maintain the mango’s integrity in the dish. Mango Lime Rice Recipe FAQs What type of mango should I use for Mango Lime Rice? Absolutely! Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor and texture. Look for mangoes that give slightly when gently squeezed and have vibrant, colorful skin. If fresh mango isn’t available, you can opt for canned mango. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to avoid excess moisture in the rice. How do I store leftovers of Mango Lime Rice? Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld beautifully over time, enhancing your Mango Lime Rice experience! If you find yourself with more than you can eat, consider freezing it for future enjoyment. Can I freeze Mango Lime Rice? Yes, you can! To freeze your Mango Lime Rice, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The rice can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, adding a splash of water to restore moisture. What can I do if my rice turns out sticky? If your rice ends up sticky, it might be due to excess starch. The key step is rinsing the basmati rice thoroughly before cooking until the water runs clear. If you’ve already cooked it and it’s too sticky, try adding a tiny bit of oil and fluffing it gently with a fork to separate the grains. Is Mango Lime Rice suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets? Absolutely! This delightful Mango Lime Rice is both vegan and gluten-free. It’s packed with flavor without any animal products, making it an excellent choice for plant-based diets. Just ensure any broth used is also vegan and gluten-free, which is easy to find at the store. How can I customize this recipe for added protein? You can easily transform this Mango Lime Rice into a heartier meal! Simply grill some chicken, shrimp, or even tofu seasoned to your liking and mix it in with the rice just before serving. I often find that adding protein not only enhances the meal but also adds to the nutritional value of this refreshing dish! Mango Lime Rice: A Refreshing Twist for Your Dinner Table Mango Lime Rice is a vibrant and refreshing tropical side dish perfect for any meal, accommodating various dietary needs. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: Best Recipe IdeasCuisine: TropicalCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Rice1 cup Basmati Rice Can substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.1.75 cups Water or Vegetable Broth Using vegetable broth adds extra flavor.For the Flavor1 medium Ripe Mango Can substitute with canned mango if fresh is unavailable.1 medium Lime Zest and juice required; fresh limes are recommended.0.25 cups Fresh Cilantro Can substitute with mint or basil.For Richness2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Coconut Oil Choose based on your flavor preference.For Seasoningto taste Saltto taste Pepper Equipment medium saucepanFine-mesh strainerMixing bowlFork Method Cooking InstructionsRinse the basmati rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Set aside.In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with water or broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.Dice the mango and zest and juice the lime. Combine these in a bowl.In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffed rice, diced mango, lime zest, and juice. Add oil and toss gently.Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve garnished with cilantro and lime wedges. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, prepare the rice and mango separately, combining just before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
