Description
A simple and flavorful Greek Lemon Rice recipe infused with fresh lemon juice, zest, and aromatic herbs. Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or a light vegetarian meal. Quick, easy, and naturally gluten-free!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric (optional, for color)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Toast the Rice: Add rinsed rice, stirring for 1-2 minutes to coat in oil.
- Add Liquid & Lemon: Pour in broth, lemon juice, and zest. Stir to combine.
- Season & Simmer: Add salt, pepper, and optional turmeric. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
- Rest & Fluff: Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute brown rice for a healthier option (increase cooking time).
- Add fresh herbs like dill or mint for extra flavor.
- For a richer taste, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegan version.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Keywords: Greek lemon rice, Mediterranean rice, easy lemon rice, Greek side dish, lemon herb rice