Colorful Cilantro Rice

It was Saturday night, which means game night. We get together almost every weekend with Mike & Lauren for fun & games. Sometimes we host and sometimes they host. Last night game night was at Mike & Lauren’s house.

We all contribute to the menu. Green chili was on the menu this time, so sticking with the Southwestern theme of the night, I brought along some some colorful cilantro rice.

Colorful Cilantro Rice

Rice is very prominently served in Mexican and Southwestern meals and has been since the 1500’s.

2 cups rice

4 cups water

olive oil

lime olive oil, optional

salt

Rice is pretty easy to cook. It is usually a 2:1 ratio, with 2 cups liquid for every cup of rice. I usually add olive oil instead of butter to my water, as well as a dash of salt. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and continue to cook for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Stirring occasionally to make sure the rice doesn’t stick or burn. Once it is cooked, fork it and let it rest for at least about 5 minutes before serving. If I am making a flavored rice, I often add either lemon or lime oil to my water as well.

1/2 of each, red, orange, yellow and green bell pepper diced

1-2 jalapenos, diced fine

3/4 cup olive oil

2-3 TBSP lime olive oil, optional

2/3 cup white wine or Prosecco vinegar

2-3 TBSP lime balsamic vinegar, optional

1/3 cup chopped cilantro

fresh ground black pepper to taste

Whisk together the oil(s), vinegar(s), cilantro and pepper and set aside until ready to use.

I sauteed my vegetables first, for about 5 minutes or so, to soften them up.

When the rice is cooked and the vegetables are ready, mix them together thoroughly.

Toss in enough of the dressing to coat the rice and vegetables without drowning them in dressing and serve. This can be served either hot or warm.

It was a big hit, but as usual, I made quite a bit, which means I have a lot leftover (and that is after leaving some with Mike & Lauren). Don’t worry though. I already have something delicious in mind on how to use it up. 🙂

Have a great day and make everyday great. Stay safe and stay well. ‘Til next time.