Ingredients for Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes)

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked (e.g., Basmati or Jasmine): The foundation for this fluffy, flavorful Greek lemon rice. Rinse thoroughly to remove excess starch for separate grains.
• 3 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium: Provides savory depth and liquid for cooking the rice. Use low-sodium to control the overall saltiness.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Essential for sautéing aromatics and infusing a rich, authentic Greek flavor. Choose a good quality, mild variety.
• ½ medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the rice. Finely chop for even distribution and quick cooking.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, pungent aroma, enhancing the savory profile. Mince it fresh for the best flavor.
• 2 medium lemons: The star of this bright and zesty dish, providing both essential juice and vibrant zest. Choose firm, unblemished lemons.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (from 1-2 lemons): Concentrates intense citrus flavor without adding extra liquid. Zest before juicing for easier handling.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for stirring in): Adds a burst of herbaceous freshness and beautiful color. Chop just before using for maximum vibrancy.
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (for stirring in): Offers a unique, aromatic, slightly anisy flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemon. Chop finely for even distribution.
• 1 large bay leaf: Contributes a subtle, earthy, aromatic note that deepens the rice’s flavor. Remember to remove it before serving.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste: Crucial for seasoning and balancing all the flavors, making the lemon truly pop. Adjust to your personal taste preference.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground: Adds a hint of warmth and mild spice, complementing the bright lemon. Freshly grind for superior aroma.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A vibrant garnish, adding a final touch of fresh color and herbaceous aroma. Sprinkle generously before serving.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (for garnish): Elevates the presentation and adds another layer of fresh, aromatic flavor. Garnish just before serving for best results.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: Perfect for an extra squeeze of bright, zesty lemon juice right before eating. Serve alongside for individual preference.

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes)

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a medium pot. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t let garlic brown; this builds the flavor base for your Greek Lemon Rice.

Add Rice & Broth:

Stir in the uncooked long-grain rice, ensuring it’s coated. Pour in vegetable broth, lemon zest, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. This prepares the rice for cooking.

Simmer Rice:

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid; this traps steam for perfectly fluffy Greek Lemon Rice. The rice will absorb the liquid.

Rest & Fluff:

After 15 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and finish cooking. Fluff with a fork to separate grains.

Stir in Freshness:

Gently fold in the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and dill. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, ensuring your Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes) is vibrant and perfectly balanced. This adds a burst of flavor.

Garnish & Serve:

Transfer the fluffy Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes) to a serving dish. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, dill, and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful side dish!

How to Store Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes)

To keep your Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes) fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. I once left mine uncovered and it dried out – don’t do what I did! Proper storage ensures moist, flavorful rice. Discard if an off-smell is present.

For future meals, you can prep chopped onion, garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs a day or two ahead. Store them separately. Cook the rice closer to serving for best texture and vibrant flavor.

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore moisture.

What to Serve with Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes)

Serve this Bright & Zesty Greek Lemon Rice warm as a vibrant side dish. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges. It’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, baked fish, or a crisp Greek salad. This versatile dish will pair wonderfully with your favorite Mediterranean mains, allowing everyone to enjoy its refreshing flavors.

I personally love to serve this fluffy rice alongside simple grilled halloumi and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. The vibrant lemon rice perfectly complements the savory cheese and crisp vegetables, creating a light yet incredibly satisfying meal. It’s a pairing I enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute short-grain rice for long-grain in this Authentic Greek Lemon Rice?

I wouldn’t recommend it, as short-grain rice releases more starch, making your Greek Lemon Rice sticky instead of fluffy. For best results, stick with long-grain varieties like Basmati or Jasmine to prevent clumping.

→ How do I prevent my Greek Lemon Rice from becoming mushy or sticky?

The trick is to resist lifting the lid during simmering and to let it rest covered afterward. This traps steam, ensuring fluffy grains. Also, rinsing the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear helps prevent stickiness.

→ How long can I store leftover Bright & Zesty Greek Lemon Rice in the fridge?

You can store your leftover Greek Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I learned the hard way that leaving it uncovered dries it out quickly, so always seal it well for moist rice.

→ Can I freeze Greek Lemon Rice for later use?

While you can freeze cooked rice, I find the texture of Greek Lemon Rice suffers a bit, becoming softer when thawed. It’s better to prep your aromatics and herbs ahead, then cook the rice fresh to make it.

→ Can I double this recipe to make more Authentic Greek Lemon Rice for a larger gathering?

Yes, you can absolutely double the recipe, but use a larger pot to ensure the rice cooks evenly. You might need a few extra minutes of simmer time to make sure it’s fully absorbed before resting.