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+ servings
Benjamin

Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican

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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Simmer with Lemon & Broth – Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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