Description
Light, zesty, and incredibly flavorful, this Greek Lemon Rice is the perfect Mediterranean-inspired side dish. With fresh lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and a hint of garlic, this dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. It’s simple to make, yet packed with bold, refreshing flavors that will elevate any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegan option)
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics – In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Toast the Rice – Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir well, allowing it to absorb the flavors and lightly toast for about 2 minutes.
Simmer with Lemon & Broth – Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook the Rice – Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Fluff and Garnish – Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and gently mix in the fresh parsley and dill. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy – Serve warm as a side dish with grilled chicken, lamb, fish, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add a bay leaf or a dash of cumin while cooking for an extra depth of flavor.
- Brown Rice Option: Swap white rice for brown rice, but increase the broth to 2 ½ cups and cook for about 35-40 minutes.
- Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely plant-based dish.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
- Perfect Pairings: This rice is excellent alongside grilled chicken, lamb skewers, baked salmon, or a fresh Greek salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Dish
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Mexican