
Craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors?
Greek Lemon Rice is your answer!
With its zesty lemon essence, fragrant herbs, and fluffy texture, this Mediterranean side dish will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Whether you’re pairing it with grilled chicken, lamb, or enjoying it as a vegetarian dish, this recipe is a must-try
Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this easy yet impressive dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Greek Lemon Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Rice: Long-grain white rice or basmati for a fluffy texture.
- Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for tangy brightness.
- Garlic: Adds a savory depth to the dish.
- Onion: Sautéed until soft for a subtle sweetness.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Olive Oil: A Mediterranean essential that adds richness.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill to finish the dish with freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the rice perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Greek Lemon Rice:
1. Preparation:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This ensures your rice comes out fluffy and not sticky.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
3. Toast the Rice:
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the oil and take on a slightly nutty flavor.
4. Add Liquid and Lemon:
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
5. Cook the Rice:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff and Garnish:
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped fresh herbs. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for Perfect Greek Lemon Rice
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs make all the difference. Avoid bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Rinse the Rice: This step is crucial to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Rest the Rice: Letting the rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavor and texture.
- Adjust Lemon Flavor: If you prefer a more subtle lemon taste, use less juice and add more zest for a balanced flavor.
Variations and Add-Ins
Greek Lemon Rice is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for added nutrients and color.
- Spices: Add a pinch of turmeric for a golden hue and slightly earthy flavor.
What to Serve with Greek Lemon Rice
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of Mediterranean-inspired meals. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside souvlaki, gyro, or roasted lamb.
- Seafood: Pair with baked salmon, shrimp skewers, or grilled octopus.
- Mediterranean Salads: Complement with a fresh Greek salad, tabbouleh, or cucumber-tomato salad. You can find our salad recipes here.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers.
FAQ’s
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Can I freeze Greek Lemon Rice?
Absolutely! Let the rice cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of fresh herbs?
You can use dried herbs like dill or parsley, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes)
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This ensures your rice comes out fluffy and not sticky.
Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Toast the Rice:
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the oil and take on a slightly nutty flavor.
Add Liquid and Lemon:
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
Cook the Rice:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff and Garnish:
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped fresh herbs. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.