Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Greek Lemon Rice is a vibrant and aromatic side dish featuring long-grain rice cooked in savory broth, infused with lemon juice, zest, and classic Mediterranean herbs like oregano and parsley. This easy stovetop recipe delivers a light, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2¼ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté the onion: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and chopped onion. Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add garlic and sauté: Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release the garlic’s aroma.
- Toast the rice: Stir the rice into the saucepan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the rice grains to toast lightly and absorb the flavors of the oil, onion, and garlic.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients, and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the broth is absorbed.
- Finish with lemon and herbs: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and fresh dill if using. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to combine.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the rice to a serving dish, garnish with crumbled feta cheese if desired, and serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Use basmati rice for a more fragrant, fluffy texture, though long-grain white rice works perfectly.
- Vegetarian or vegan options: use vegetable broth and omit feta cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Adjust lemon juice and zest amounts based on your preference for tanginess.
- Fresh dill adds an authentic Greek flavor but is optional if unavailable.
- For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the rice longer but be careful not to burn it.
Keywords: Greek lemon rice, lemon rice, Greek side dish, Mediterranean rice recipe, easy rice recipe, lemon herb rice
Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/greek-lemon-rice-recipe/
