Not exactly southern, but this is one of my favorite side dishes to serve with Mexican fare.
FIRST Combine cilantro, scallions, lime juice, and olive oil in a food processor. Puree until smooth, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
NEXT Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add water and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook until rice is tender, about 18 minutes. Remove from heat.
LAST Gently toss rice with cilantro mixture, fluff with a fork, and serve.