This Easy Greek Lemon Rice is a bright and zesty side dish that comes together in just 35 minutes. With fluffy rice flavored with lemon and fresh herbs, it’s a perfect companion to any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long grain white rice is perfect for this recipe since it cooks up fluffy. You can also use basmati rice for a slightly nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a whole grain option, brown rice works too, but remember to adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
Broth: Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian dish. If you have homemade stock, that’s even better! Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly based on what you use.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemons are best for their bright flavor. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is a decent substitute, but fresh is always the way to go! Use the zest for an extra punch of lemon flavor.
Dill & Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish. If you can’t find fresh dill, dried dill works in a pinch. Parsley is also interchangeably fresh or dried, but fresh adds a nice pop of color and flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Rice is Perfectly Fluffy?
Getting fluffy rice is all about rinsing and cooking it just right. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch that can make your rice gummy.
- Cook the rice in a mixture of broth and lemon juice for flavor.
- Once the rice is cooked, let it sit off the heat, covered, for about 5 minutes. This helps the grains firm up and separate nicely.
- When you fluff the rice with a fork, be gentle. This keeps it from getting mushy.
So, follow these tips, and you’ll have a lovely, fluffy Greek lemon rice to enjoy as a side dish!
Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe Ready in 35 Minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried dill)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek Lemon Rice takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a zesty and fluffy side dish to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. This removes excess starch, making the rice fluffier when it cooks. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear, then drain the rice well.
2. Cook the Onion:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s softened and translucent. This gives a great flavor base for your rice!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for another minute until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Toast the Rice:
Now it’s time to add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir it in and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps to coat the grains in the oil and lightly toast them for great flavor.
5. Add Liquids:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients. This is where the zesty flavor starts to come together!
6. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. The rice should be tender and the liquid should be absorbed.
7. Steam the Rice:
After the cooking time, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This steaming step will help the rice firm up and prevent it from being mushy.
8. Fluff and Add Herbs:
After steaming, use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Now stir in the chopped dill and parsley for freshness and color.
9. Season:
Finally, taste your rice and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust the flavors as needed for your perfect dish!
10. Serve:
Serve your warm Greek lemon rice as a delightful side dish with your favorite Greek or Mediterranean main courses. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!
Enjoy your bright, tangy Greek lemon rice—simple, fresh, and ready in 35 minutes!
FAQ for Easy Greek Lemon Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it takes longer to cook. Increase the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes, and add an additional 1/2 cup of broth to ensure it’s tender and fluffy.
How Should I Store Leftover Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rice in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing!
Can I Use Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh Ones?
Definitely! If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, use dried dill and parsley. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about 1/3 of the amount—around 1 tablespoon for dry dill and 1 tablespoon for dry parsley should suffice.
What Can I Serve with Greek Lemon Rice?
This zesty rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish, and is perfect alongside Greek salads or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it as a light main dish by adding some sautéed vegetables or beans!
