Greek Lemon Rice
This Greek Lemon Rice is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with Mediterranean-inspired meals. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, fragrant herbs, and a touch of garlic, this simple yet delicious rice recipe brings the essence of Greek cuisine to your table. Whether served alongside grilled meats, seafood, or a fresh salad, this dish adds a zesty and light complement to any meal.
My family can’t get enough of this Greek Lemon Rice. It’s become our go-to side dish, especially when we’re enjoying a Mediterranean-style dinner at home. My husband loves it with grilled chicken or lamb, while my little one enjoys the lemony, fresh flavors on its own! What makes this recipe special for us is how quick and easy it is to make, yet it feels like a dish you’d enjoy on vacation in Greece. The balance of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs always brings everyone back for seconds!
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Why You’ll Love Greek Lemon Rice
- Zesty and Fresh: The bright lemon flavor makes this rice dish stand out from the usual sides.
- Versatile: Perfect with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a base for Mediterranean bowls.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the light, refreshing taste, and it pairs with so many meals!
Ingredients Notes for Greek Lemon Rice
- Long Grain White Rice: Fluffy and light, perfect for absorbing all the lemony goodness.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring a vibrant, tangy flavor to the rice.
- Garlic: Adds depth and a subtle savory touch to balance the citrus.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Cooking the rice in broth enhances its flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.
Recipe Steps for Greek Lemon Rice
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- Add 1 cup of long grain white rice to the pan and stir to coat with the garlic oil.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and the juice of 1 large lemon (about 3-4 tablespoons).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the cooked rice for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra broth to keep it moist.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta on top for an added creamy, salty touch.
- Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely plant-based dish.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Use Brown Rice: Swap in brown rice for a whole grain option, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Greek Lemon Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice such as basmati or jasmine
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon about 2 tablespoons
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add Rice: Stir in the rice and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly in the oil.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
