Name: Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

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Greek Lemon Rice is a vibrant, tangy, and versatile side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With simple ingredients like rice, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, I can create a Mediterranean-inspired dish in just 35 minutes. Whether paired with grilled meats, seafood, or enjoyed on its own, this dish brings a burst of flavor to the table. Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how Greek Lemon Rice combines the bright, zesty notes of lemon with the savory depth of garlic and onions. The fluffy texture of the rice, enhanced by the richness of olive oil and the freshness of herbs, makes it a delightful accompaniment to a variety of main dishes. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to side dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

(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 a fluffy texture.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, I heat olive oil over medium heat. I add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Toast the Rice: I stir in the rinsed rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes to allow it to absorb the oil and develop a slightly nutty flavor.
Add 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: Once boiling, I reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Rest and Fluff: I remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, I fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped fresh herbs. I adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

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

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store any leftover Greek Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, I can freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, I can use brown rice, but I’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Can I freeze Greek Lemon Rice?

Absolutely! I let the rice cool completely, then freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, I thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it as desired.

What can I use instead of fresh herbs?

I can use dried herbs like dill or parsley, but I should reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the rice up to 2 days in advance. I store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

How can I adjust the lemon flavor?

If I prefer a more subtle lemon taste, I can use less lemon juice and add more zest for a balanced flavor.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Rice is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that adds a burst of Mediterranean flavor to any meal. With its bright lemony notes, savory aromatics, and fluffy texture, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Whether I’m serving it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a staple in my cooking repertoire.