Ingredients for Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes)

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed: The essential base for fluffy, separate grains. Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing a mushy texture. Use Basmati or Jasmine for best results.
• 3 cups vegetable broth: Provides a savory, aromatic foundation instead of plain water. It deepens the overall flavor profile. Choose a low-sodium broth for better salt control.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: A cornerstone of Greek cooking, it adds richness and helps sauté aromatics. Opt for a good quality cold-pressed olive oil for authentic taste.
• 2 fresh lemons (juiced and zested): The star of this Greek lemon rice, providing bright, zesty flavor. Always use fresh lemons for maximum impact and aroma.
• ½ yellow onion, finely chopped: Forms the aromatic base, adding a subtle sweetness and depth. Sauté until translucent, not browned, for a milder flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic, bringing pungent warmth and savory notes. Mince finely to distribute flavor evenly throughout the rice.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for cooking): Infuses a fresh, herbaceous note during cooking. It brightens the overall flavor of the Greek lemon rice.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Greek herb, offering earthy, slightly peppery notes. It’s a key ingredient for an authentic Mediterranean taste.
• 1 dried bay leaf: Adds a subtle, warm, and slightly floral aroma to the rice. Remember to remove it before serving for safety.
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Provides a distinct, fresh, and slightly anise-like flavor. It complements the lemon beautifully in this dish.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish. Start with less and adjust to taste, especially with salted broth.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste): Adds a hint of warmth and mild spice. Grinding fresh provides the best aroma and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a vibrant green color and fresh finish. Sprinkle just before serving for visual appeal and a burst of freshness.
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving): Offers a salty, tangy counterpoint, elevating the dish. A fantastic addition for a more complete light meal.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling): A final touch that enhances richness and adds a fresh, fruity aroma. Drizzle generously over warm servings.

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes)

Prep Ingredients:

Start by rinsing your long-grain rice until water runs clear, then set aside. Finely chop the yellow onion, mince the garlic, and zest and juice both fresh lemons. This ensures everything is ready for your Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes).

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, and the bay leaf, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine & Boil:

Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat. Pour in the vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat immediately.

Simmer Rice:

Cover the pot tightly and reduce heat to low. Let the Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes) simmer undisturbed for 15-18 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender and fluffy. Do not lift the lid!

Finish & Fluff:

Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. Then, gently remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh lemon zest, chopped parsley, and fresh dill. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

Serve Warm:

Your Bright & Zesty Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes) is ready! Transfer to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with crumbled feta cheese and a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately as a delightful side.

How to Store Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes)

To keep your Greek Lemon Rice fresh, store leftovers promptly in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long, or it will dry out – a mistake I made! Discard if it has an off smell or slimy texture.

For make-ahead, chop onion, mince garlic, and zest/juice lemons a day or two in advance. Store prepped items separately in the refrigerate. Assemble and cook the rice just before serving for the best fresh results.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture.

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

Serve this Bright & Zesty Greek Lemon Rice warm, straight from the pot for a comforting experience. For a vibrant touch, garnish with extra fresh parsley, dill, or thin lemon slices. It’s the perfect side to pair with grilled chicken, baked fish, or a crisp Greek salad for a complete meal. You’ll enjoy every zesty bite!

My personal favorite way to serve this is alongside juicy grilled lamb chops. The bright, zesty lemon perfectly cuts through the richness of the lamb, creating an unforgettable flavor combination that you’ll truly enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

While you can, short-grain rice will yield a stickier, less fluffy result for your Greek Lemon Rice. I found it gets mushier easily. For best results, stick with long-grain white rice for distinct grains.

→ How do I prevent mushy, gluey Bright & Zesty Greek Lemon Rice, a common problem?

Rinsing your rice thoroughly until the water runs clear is crucial to prevent mushiness; I learned this the hard way. Also, avoid lifting the lid during simmering and let it rest covered.

→ Can I make this Bright & Zesty Greek Lemon Rice recipe gluten-free for dietary needs?

Absolutely! This Greek Lemon Rice recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to ensure no hidden gluten. Enjoy your delicious, safe meal!

→ How long can I store leftover Greek Lemon Rice, and what’s the best way?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always make sure to put it away quickly to prevent drying out. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

→ Can I freeze Bright & Zesty Greek Lemon Rice to save time for later meals?

While you can technically freeze cooked rice, I find the texture of this Greek Lemon Rice changes significantly upon thawing, becoming a bit mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep aromatics ahead.