This Herbed Lime Basmati Rice is a flavorful and fresh dish that will add brightness to your plate. Use this rice as the perfect accompaniment to your favourite sauce and stews, as a replacement for plain white rice or as the base for an epic lunch plate. Either way, this rice is so easy to make, it makes cooking rice much more fun and interesting.

Here at Nookies Diaries, I am all about sharing easy and simple recipes. Recipes anyone can make easily and with fresh ingredients that can be found locally. Whether it’s cooking chicken or pasta, I believe that meals should be flavorful, fresh and easy. The use of fresh herbs and a few spices and seasonings can be used to turn simple ingredients into something completely different.
Today, we are turning the spotlight on a most loved pantry staple: rice. Cooking rice is not new to Nigerians. Rice is probably eaten in every household in Nigeria at least once a week. However, we will be completely transforming plain rice into something magical.
Herbed lime basmati rice is super fresh from the fresh herbs, zesty from the fresh lime and flavorful from the combination of all those yummy ingredients along with the fresh garlic. It’s really easy to make, so grab your measuring cup and let’s get cooking.
Herbed Lime Basmati Rice Recipe Video
While it’s easy to make this recipe, it also helps to watch a 1 minute video. Give it a watch below!

The Type Of Rice To Use
For this recipe, I used a low G.I basmati rice. Low G.I simply means that this type of rice has a relatively low glycemic index number compared to other types of basmati rice. However, you can use any long-grain rice including the popular parboiled long-grain rice and other types of basmati rice.
How To Make Herbed Lime Basmati Rice
Besides cooking the rice, the rest of the dish comes together pretty quickly. I always find that it’s best to refer to the cooking instructions at the back your rice packaging for best results. However, the tips listed below will work well.
- Rinse your basmati rice thoroughly under running water and soak for 2 hours.
- Transfer into a pot along with boiling water, garlic and salt. Cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until the rice has soaked up the water and it’s soft and fluffy.
- Remove from the heat and drizzle some oil,add the zest of a small lime, the juice and chopped fresh herbs. I used fresh coriander. Give everything a good toss and serve immediately.
Ways To Enjoy Herbed Lime Basmati Rice
This dish pairs well with both Asian and Mexican flavours. Pair it with your favourite Asian inspired sauce along with a source of protein and a side of veggies for a balanced meal. Here are a few ideas to help you along.

Meal Prep Ideas
Just like most of the recipes I share, this herbed lime basmati rice can also be made ahead of time. Simply store this rice in an airtight storage container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Re-heat in the microwave and it’s ready for a quick lunch.
You can also freeze this rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, you can either thaw it in the fridge overnight, or microwave it immediately.
More Rice Dishes
Herbed Lime Basmati Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 3 cups water boiling
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup Fresh coriander
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1 small fresh lime
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under running water and soak for 2 hours.
- Into a pot, add the drained rice, boiling water and garlic. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice has soaked up the water and it's soft and fluffy.
- Remove from the heat and add the oil, lime zest and lime juice. Give it a good toss and serve immediately.
Did you make this recipe?
Leave a comment below and tag me over on Instagram @nookies_diaries or use the hashtag #nookies_diaries.
I always look forward to reading your comments and seeing your pictures.
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