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Greek Lemon Rice

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Greek Lemon Rice

Description

Bright, fluffy, and bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavor, this Greek Lemon Rice is the perfect side dish for everything from grilled chicken and seafood to roasted vegetables and lamb. Long-grain rice is gently cooked in a savory broth with garlic, onions, fresh lemon juice, and fragrant herbs, creating light, tender grains infused with vibrant citrus flavor. Finished with fresh parsley and lemon zest, this dish is simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious.

Unlike plain steamed rice, Greek Lemon Rice is packed with bold flavor in every bite. The rice absorbs the seasoned broth as it cooks, while fresh lemon juice and zest provide a refreshing tang that perfectly complements the richness of olive oil and garlic. The result is a light yet satisfying side dish that’s suitable for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, potlucks, or meal prep.

This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes using pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as grilled chicken souvlaki, baked salmon, shrimp skewers, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Greek salad. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll make again and again.

Ingredients For the Rice

  • 1½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Cooking Liquid

  • 2¾ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Extra lemon zest
  • Fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the rinsed rice and stir for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
  6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
  7. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  8. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  9. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
  10. Remove the pan from the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5–10 minutes.
  11. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  12. Fold in the chopped parsley and fresh dill if using.
  13. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra lemon juice, salt, or pepper.
  14. Garnish with lemon wedges and additional lemon zest.
  15. Serve warm alongside your favorite Mediterranean dishes.

Tips

  • Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and helps produce fluffy grains.
  • Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor—avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
  • Toasting the rice before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor.
  • Add crumbled feta cheese for extra richness.
  • Stir in baby spinach during the final few minutes for added color and nutrition.
  • A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving enhances the Mediterranean flavor.
  • Leftovers are perfect for rice bowls, salads, or stuffed peppers.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.
  • This rice also makes an excellent base for grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.

Q&A

Can I use brown rice?
Yes. Brown rice works well, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add additional broth according to the package directions.

Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely. Simply replace the butter with additional olive oil and use vegetable broth.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Greek Lemon Rice reheats beautifully and is ideal for meal prep.

What should I serve with Greek Lemon Rice?
It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, baked salmon, shrimp skewers, lamb chops, chicken souvlaki, roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or homemade tzatziki.

Servings

Serves 4–6

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 265
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Potassium: 170mg
  • Calcium: 2% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV
  • Vitamin C: 18% DV

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