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Zesty Greek Lemon Rice: Your Ultimate Flavorful Side Dish

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  • Prep Time: 10-15 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 Minutes
  • Total Time: 35 Minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 Servings 1x
  • Category: Mediterranean Diet Recipes

Description

How to make vibrant Greek Lemon Rice with fluffy rice, fresh lemon juice, and savory broth that’s ready in just 35 minutes for a perfect side.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Base Components:
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Zesty Flavor Builders:
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Seasonings & Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Finishing Touches:
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. This forms the flavorful base for your Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes).
  2. Toast Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the pot with the aromatics. Stir well to coat the rice in the oil. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the edges of the rice grains start to become translucent. This toasting enhances the texture.
  3. Simmer Perfection: Pour in the vegetable broth, then add dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer.
  4. Cook Rice: Let the Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes) simmer, covered, for 15-18 minutes without lifting the lid. The rice will absorb all the liquid and become tender and fluffy. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  5. Fold Flavors: Gently fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, unsalted butter, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh parsley. Fold these vibrant ingredients into the warm rice until well combined.
  6. Serve Fresh: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for your perfect Greek Lemon Rice (35-Minutes). Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy this delightful side dish!

Notes

Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to prevent steam escape, ensuring tender, fluffy rice.

Store cooled leftover Greek Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Stick to long-grain white rice for best results, as brown rice alters cooking time and liquid requirements.

Serve warm, garnished with dill and lemon wedges. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, baked fish, or lamb souvlaki.

Prep aromatics and chop herbs a day ahead. Cook rice fresh, adding lemon and herbs just before serving for best flavor.

**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten