Light and Flavorful Greek Lemon Rice for Every Occasion Recipe
A light and flavorful Greek lemon rice recipe perfect for any occasion. This simple yet aromatic dish features toasted long grain rice simmered with lemon juice, zest, oregano, and savory broth, resulting in a tender, fluffy rice with a bright citrusy punch. Ideal as a side for Mediterranean meals or as a standalone vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic brown.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the pot, stirring well to coat it in the olive oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for about 1 minute to enhance its texture and flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot with a tight lid, and let the rice simmer undisturbed for 18 to 20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the rice and adjust seasoning with extra lemon juice or salt if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for added freshness and color.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Be careful not to brown the garlic when sautéing to prevent bitterness.
- Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking to ensure even steam cooking.
- This rice pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best bright and fresh flavor.
Keywords: Greek lemon rice, lemon rice recipe, Greek side dish, lemon flavored rice, easy rice recipe, Mediterranean rice, lemon zest rice
