Description
Bright, herby, and tangy — this Greek Lemon Rice is a simple yet elegant Mediterranean side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables. Made with fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, it’s light, fluffy, and full of sunny flavor. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine) – rinsed well for fluffy texture
2 tablespoons olive oil – for rich Mediterranean flavor
1 small onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth
2 cloves garlic, minced – for aroma and flavor
1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth – enhances savory taste
1 large lemon, juiced and zested – brightens every bite
½ teaspoon salt – adjust to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper – balances the citrus
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped – for color and freshness
1 tablespoon butter (optional) – adds richness to finish
Instructions
Rinse the rice: Place rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
Sauté aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat each grain in oil. Toast lightly for about 2 minutes.
Add broth and lemon: Stir in broth, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Rest and fluff: Turn off heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Then fluff gently with a fork.
Finish and serve: Stir in fresh herbs and butter (if using). Adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
Notes
For vegan/dairy-free: Use only olive oil and vegetable broth.
For a brown rice version: Increase broth to 2 cups and cook 15 minutes longer.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore fluffiness.
Serving ideas: Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, or roasted veggies for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Optional garnish: Lemon slices, extra herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil for presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Greek lemon rice, Mediterranean side dish, lemon herb rice, easy Greek rice recipe, healthy rice dish
