Authentic Greek Lemon Rice Recipe – A Mediterranean Favorite

If you’re craving a side dish that’s both zesty and comforting, greek lemon rice is the perfect choice. Infused with bright citrus notes, fragrant herbs, and a hint of garlic, this flavorful rice will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Keep reading to discover how this simple yet delicious dish can elevate any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice or basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or grater
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from becoming gummy. Drain thoroughly.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally so it does not brown.
3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown or it may add bitterness.
4. Step 4: Stir in the rinsed rice, making sure each grain gets lightly coated in oil and mixes well with the onion and garlic. Let the rice toast in the pan for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often.
5. Step 5: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the salt and lemon zest. Stir everything well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
6. Step 6: Once boiling, cover tightly, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Step 7: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, still covered, for another 5 minutes. This resting time helps every grain finish steaming and ensures fluffiness.
8. Step 8: Uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Add freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
9. Step 9: Serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or veggies.

Nutrition per serving

For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and do not skip the lemon zest. Leftovers keep well for 2 days in the fridge.

Description

Greek Lemon Rice is like a bite of sunshine on a plate. Infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, this fragrant and fluffy rice is the perfect marriage of comforting warmth and bright citrusy tang. The delicate flavor of the rice is elevated by sautéed garlic and onion, a touch of olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, giving it a Mediterranean soul that transports you straight to a taverna by the sea.

Every forkful has layers of flavor — the sharpness of lemon dancing alongside the earthiness of basmati rice, with the gentle herbal kiss of parsley bringing balance. Whether served as a vibrant side to grilled meats or as a base for your favorite roasted vegetables, Greek Lemon Rice is both elegant and effortless, making it a staple in any home kitchen craving something light yet satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Lemon Rice is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. With less than thirty minutes of cook time and easy pantry staples, it’s a beautiful way to add Mediterranean flavor to your meal routine. Plus, it pairs well with everything from chicken souvlaki to falafel and salmon.

It’s also a great make-ahead option for meal prepping since it stays flavorful even after chilling. The lemon adds not only brightness but also a dose of vitamin C, contributing to a lighter and healthier side dish you can feel good about serving to your family.

Serving and Storage Tips

Store any leftover lemon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

This dish can also be frozen. Allow the rice to cool completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Greek Lemon Rice is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the rice a day ahead and finish it with the lemon juice and herbs just before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

FAQ

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Greek Lemon Rice

Greek Lemon Rice is like a bite of sunshine on a plate. Fragrant, fluffy, and infused with fresh lemon juice, sautéed onion, garlic, and fresh herbs for a comforting Mediterranean side dish that pairs with nearly anything.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 cup long grain white rice or basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.
• In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the grains with the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring regularly.
• Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the salt and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
• Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Season with black pepper to taste.
• Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish to your favorite protein or vegetables.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSodium: 480mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

Keyword Greek lemon rice, Mediterranean, side dish, easy recipes, rice pilaf, Greek recipes, lemon rice

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