Name: Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill; Salt and pepper to taste

Greek Lemon Rice is a delightful side dish that brings the bright and zesty flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. With its aromatic blend of sautéed onions, garlic, fresh lemon juice, and herbs, this dish transforms simple rice into a flavorful accompaniment to any meal.

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how Greek Lemon Rice elevates a basic grain into a vibrant side dish. The combination of sautéed onions and garlic provides a savory base, while the fresh lemon juice and zest add a tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley or dill brings a burst of color and freshness, making it a perfect complement to grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian meals.

Ingredients

Long-grain white rice or basmati
Fresh lemon juice and zest
Garlic
Onion
Chicken or vegetable broth
Olive oil
Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
Salt and pepper

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Rinse the Rice: I start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, ensuring the rice cooks up fluffy and not sticky.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, I heat olive oil over medium heat. I add finely diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Toast the Rice: Next, I stir in the rinsed rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the oil and take on a slightly nutty flavor.
Add the Liquid and Lemon: I pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. I stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, I reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Rest and Fluff: After removing the saucepan from heat, I let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, I fluff the rice with a fork and stir in chopped fresh herbs. I season with salt and pepper to taste.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: I can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
Protein Additions: To make it a complete meal, I sometimes add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Extra Veggies: I like to stir in sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for added nutrients and color.
Spices: For a different flavor profile, I occasionally add a pinch of turmeric for a golden hue and slightly earthy taste.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: I store any leftover Greek Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: I can freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To reheat, I add a splash of broth or water and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, I can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. I follow the package instructions for brown rice and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often prepare it in advance. I store it in the refrigerator and reheat it with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, I can substitute dried herbs. Since dried herbs are more concentrated, I use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I use a gluten-free broth, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, I sometimes sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the rice before serving for added richness and flavor.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that adds a touch of Mediterranean flair to any meal. With its bright lemony taste, savory aromatics, and fresh herbs, it’s a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a complement to grilled meats or seafood, this dish is sure to become a favorite in my culinary repertoire.