Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet

Name: Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup frozen peas; Zest and juice of 2 limes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Recipes

When I stumbled upon the idea of a one-skillet rice dish infused with Jamaican flavors, I knew I had to give it a try! This Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet combines the bright zest of lime with the comforting essence of garlic and colorful veggies. It’s not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor! Each bite transports you to the Caribbean, making it the perfect dish for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a lively gathering with friends.

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:17:34.461Z

I remember the first time I made the Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet. I had invited friends over and wanted to impress them with something unique yet simple. As the garlic sautéed and the lime juice brightened the room, everyone was instantly curious about the tantalizing aroma. What surprised me most was how quickly everything came together in just one skillet - a true time saver!

This dish is truly versatile. I love experimenting with additional ingredients like black beans or shredded chicken for added protein. The key here is to let the rice absorb the flavors fully, so don’t rush it! Trust me, the combination of garlic and lime is a game-changer that elevates the humble rice to extraordinary heights.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful balance of garlic and citrus that brightens your meal
One-skillet preparation keeps cleanup easy and efficient
Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet is undoubtedly the rice, which acts as the canvas for all the vibrant flavors. Long-grain rice is ideal here because it maintains its structure and helps absorb the flavors without becoming mushy. When rinsing the rice before cooking, a quick wash under cold water removes excess starch, which can prevent clumping and achieve a fluffier texture in the final dish.

Using fresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it adds a powerful depth of flavor. Minced garlic should be added just after the onion and bell pepper start to soften; this timing allows it to cook through without burning, which can result in a bitter taste. If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can substitute with garlic powder, but the flavor profile will vary slightly.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the vegetables at the right temperature is crucial for developing rich flavors. Cooking over medium heat allows the onions and bell peppers to soften and caramelize slightly without browning too fast. Keep an eye on the vegetables, stirring occasionally, to ensure they soften evenly and become aromatic before adding the rice.

When adding the liquid, it's important to bring the broth to a gentle simmer rather than a vigorous boil. A simmer allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb the flavors gradually. Covering the skillet helps trap steam, which is essential for cooking the rice perfectly fluffy. If at any point you find the rice is too dry, a splash of extra broth can help adjust the consistency.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

2 cups long-grain rice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup frozen peas
Zest and juice of 2 limes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to match your taste or what's available in your kitchen!

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.

Incorporate Lime and Peas

After 15 minutes, add the frozen peas, lime zest, and lime juice to the rice. Cover and continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve

Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet!

Feel free to experiment with different spices or proteins to make this skillet your own!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or served with a side of grilled shrimp.

Customization Options

One of the appealing aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to substitute the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, adding diced carrots, zucchini, or even corn can elevate the dish both in flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, if you want more protein, you can stir in black beans or cooked chicken towards the end of the cooking process.

For a spicier kick, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños with the bell peppers. Adjusting the lime juice can also modify the dish's brightness; if you prefer a more subdued citrus flavor, start with the juice of just one lime and taste before adding more.

Storage and Reheating

If you're making this dish ahead of time or have leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor and texture. Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Place the cooled rice in a freezer-friendly bag, squeezing out as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months.

When it comes to reheating, add a tablespoon of water while warming the rice in a skillet over medium heat. This moisture will help to rehydrate the rice and prevent it from becoming dry. Stirring occasionally as it heats will ensure even warming, keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice typically requires about 45 minutes to cook.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This dish is naturally vegetarian, and you can easily make it vegan by ensuring your broth is plant-based.

→ What can I serve this rice with?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or can be a great side to any main dish.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance, just reheat it gently on the stove while adding a splash of water to keep it moist.