When you want something more exciting than plain white rice, Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime & Scallions is your answer. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this dish delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and a refreshing brightness that complements a wide variety of meals. The subtle sweetness of coconut milk combined with fragrant jasmine rice and a zingy lime finish is an irresistible combination.
Whether you’re cooking up a Thai curry, grilled shrimp, or roasted vegetables, this easy coconut rice will make your meal feel complete and elevated. It’s beginner-friendly, naturally dairy-free, and takes under 30 minutes to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Jasmine Rice
- Flavorful but simple. The coconut milk gives it richness, while lime juice and scallions add freshness.
- Versatile pairing. Goes well with Thai, Indian, Caribbean, and Latin-inspired dishes.
- Minimal ingredients. Only a few pantry staples required.
- Meal prep friendly. Keeps well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
This is one of those reliable, go-to side dishes that elevate your dinner without adding stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here is everything you need to make Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime & Scallions:
For the Rice:
- Jasmine rice (1½ cups): Fragrant and naturally soft, jasmine rice absorbs coconut flavor beautifully.
- Coconut milk (1 can, 400 ml): Use full-fat for a rich, creamy result.
- Water (½ cup): Helps balance the coconut milk for proper cooking.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor.
- Coconut oil (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds extra richness.
For the Flavor Finish:
- Fresh lime juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the dish.
- Lime zest (1 teaspoon): Enhances the citrus aroma.
- Scallions or green onions (2 stalks, finely sliced): Adds color and fresh flavor.
- Cilantro (optional, chopped): A fresh garnish to finish.
How to Make Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime & Scallions
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and results in a fluffier texture.
Tip: Do not skip this step. Rinsing the rice is essential to prevent it from becoming gummy.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and optional coconut oil. Stir gently.
Bring to a light boil over medium heat (approximately 180°C). Once it begins bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
Simmer for 15 to 18 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 3: Let It Rest
Remove the saucepan from the heat but do not lift the lid. Let the rice rest for 10 minutes to finish steaming. This allows the grains to firm up and absorb the remaining moisture.
Step 4: Fluff and Flavor
Uncover the pot and use a fork to fluff the rice. Stir in the fresh lime juice, lime zest, and chopped scallions. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra scallions and chopped cilantro if using. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- Use a heavy-lidded pot to ensure even cooking and proper steaming.
- Do not stir while the rice is cooking. Stirring during this time can lead to a sticky texture.
- Resting the rice after cooking is essential for fluffiness.
- Zest the lime before juicing—it’s easier and more effective.
Variations to Try
This rice is incredibly adaptable. Here are some ways to change things up:
Add Aromatics
Sauté minced garlic, ginger, or shallots in coconut oil before adding the rice for a deeper flavor base.
Make It Spicy
Stir in chopped Thai chili or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Try a Sweet Version
Reduce the salt slightly and add 1 to 2 teaspoons of sugar for a subtly sweet coconut rice, perfect with tropical fruit or grilled pineapple.
Build a Bowl
Turn this into a full meal by topping it with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or a fried egg. Add steamed or roasted vegetables to complete the bowl.
Add More Herbs
Mix in fresh mint, Thai basil, or parsley for an herbal twist.
What to Serve with Coconut Jasmine Rice
This rice pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes across multiple cuisines.
Curries:
- Thai green curry
- Red lentil dal
- Massaman curry
- Caribbean-style coconut curry
Proteins:
- Grilled shrimp or scallops
- Teriyaki salmon
- Jerk chicken or pork
- Tofu or tempeh stir-fry
Vegetables:
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Stir-fried bok choy
- Mango cucumber salad
- Pickled radishes or carrots
Fusion Ideas:
- Add to burrito bowls or lettuce wraps
- Use as a base for Asian-inspired grain bowls
- Serve alongside BBQ ribs or spicy fried fish
Storage and Reheating
Storage
Let rice cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, add a tablespoon of water per serving and microwave covered for 1 to 2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop in a covered pan over low heat.
Freezing
This rice freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Meal prep tip: Divide into meal-sized portions for easy weekday lunches.
Final Thoughts
Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime & Scallions is a quick yet flavorful dish that brings warmth and brightness to any meal. Its rich coconut base and citrus finish make it a perfect side dish for global cuisines or a satisfying base for grain bowls and main courses.
Whether you’re cooking a casual weeknight dinner or preparing a dish to impress guests, this coconut rice delivers both comfort and elegance. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime & Scallions Recipe
Description
Fragrant, fluffy, and full of tropical flavor, this Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime & Scallions is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, curries, or stir-fries. Creamy coconut milk enriches the tender jasmine rice, while fresh lime juice and chopped scallions bring a bright, zesty finish. It’s a quick and versatile dish ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Jasmine Rice
For the Flavor Finish
Instructions
Rinse the Rice
- Place the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy rather than sticky.
Cook the Rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and optional coconut oil. Stir gently to mix. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Rest the Rice
- Remove the saucepan from heat and keep covered. Let the rice rest undisturbed for 10 minutes. This step allows the rice to finish steaming and makes it fluffier.
Fluff and Flavor
- After the resting period, uncover the pot and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and sliced scallions. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.
Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the rice to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a touch of color and herbal freshness (optional). Serve warm as a flavorful base or side dish.
Note
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped Thai chili for a spicy twist.
- Rice Substitutions: You can use long-grain rice or basmati rice if jasmine rice is not available, but adjust liquid quantities accordingly.
- Make it Vegan Main Dish: Top with sautéed tofu, steamed vegetables, or grilled tempeh to turn this into a light yet satisfying vegan meal.
- Add Crunch: Top with toasted shredded coconut or crushed roasted peanuts for texture.
