Description
How to make fluffy Greek Lemon Rice with fresh lemon and savory broth that’s a perfect quick side dish or light meal in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- Base Components:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 fresh lemons (juiced and zested)
- Aromatics & Flavor Builders:
- ½ yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 dried bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- Finishing & Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for serving)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
Rinse rice thoroughly until water runs clear for fluffy, distinct grains, and keep pot tightly covered during simmering to prevent mushiness.
Store leftover Greek Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently with water.
For best results, use long-grain white rice and fresh lemon juice/zest; bottled alternatives compromise authentic texture and flavor.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, baked fish, or lamb chops.
Chop onion, mince garlic, and zest/juice lemons a day or two ahead. Store prepped items separately; cook rice just before serving.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten