Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

I just whipped up the most refreshing lemon herb rice, and let me tell you, it’s like a little Mediterranean vacation for your taste buds! The combo of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs takes basic rice to a whole new level of deliciousness—seriously, you’ll want to pair it with everything! 🍋🌿

Lemon Rice is a lemony, fresh, and fragrant dish that I really like to pair with different cuisines. The long-grain white rice cooks perfectly and I use a combination of fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to really punch up the flavor.

And when you eat it, it tastes even fresher! Olive oil, garlic, and onions are the base for the rice, and then fresh dill and parsley contribute some wonderful herbaceousness to the dish.

So it’s just a great combination of flavors.

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe Ingredients

• Long-Grain White Rice: Provides carbohydrates for energy.

  Mild flavor absorbs spices well.

• Olive Oil: A healthy fat with antioxidants.

  Adds richness and depth to dishes.

• Lemon Juice: Rich in vitamin C.

  Offers a bright, refreshing, tangy flavor.

• Lemon Zest: Intensifies lemon flavor with aromatic oils.

  Adds vibrant citrus notes.

• Fresh Dill: Contains vitamins A and C.

  Contributes a fresh, slightly sweet taste.

• Fresh Parsley: Vitamin-rich, particularly in K.

  Delivers a clean, peppery flavor.

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

1. Wash the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.

2. In a saucepan of medium thickness, warm the olive oil over medium heat.

3. Place the chopped onion in the pan and cook until it is soft and not see-through, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.

4. Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

5. Put the rice in the pan and twist the pan around so that the oil coats all the rice, 2 minutes. (If you don’t have a pan that you can twist and turn, use a spoon to do this step; it helps to not burn the rice.)

6. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to mix all the ingredients.

7. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

8. Boil the mixture, then lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is completely absorbed.

9. Take the pan off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes, covered, so the rice can steam.

10. Using a fork, fluff the rice and then mix in the fresh dill and parsley just prior to serving. Make sure the seasonings are how you like them, and then serve this dish warm.

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Measuring cups
2. Fine-mesh sieve or strainer
3. Medium saucepan with lid
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Grater or zester
8. Citrus juicer
9. Fork

FAQ

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?Certainly, you will have to make changes to the cooking time and the amount of broth you use. Brown rice takes longer to cook and needs more liquid than white rice.
• Is it possible to make this dish vegan?Indeed, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• How do I ensure the rice doesn’t become mushy?Wash the rice with cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which helps prevent mushiness.
• Can I prepare this dish in advance?It indeed keeps well in the refrigerator for three to four days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water as necessary.
• What’s a good substitute for fresh dill if I don’t have any?Dried dill can be used with the following considerations: use one-third of the amount compared to fresh dill, as dried herbs are more potent; and ensure the dried dill is not too old, as aging can reduce potency.
• Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?For the freshest flavor, use fresh lemon juice; bottled lemon juice is acceptable if you’re in a bind. Adjust to your liking.

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For a slightly different texture and a different aroma, long-grain white rice can be substituted with basmati rice or jasmine rice.
Avocado oil or coconut oil can be used to replace olive oil, offering an alternate flavor profile.
Mushroom broth or water can be used in place of chicken or vegetable broth for a more delicate flavor.
Lime juice can be used in place of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Substituting fresh dill can be done with fresh mint or tarragon, offering an alternative herb-packed punch of flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Rice Before adding the broth, give the rice a few extra minutes in the oil until it turns golden. This enhances the nutty flavor and adds a subtle depth to the dish.

2. Use Warm Broth When adding the chicken or vegetable broth, make sure it is warm or at least room temperature. This helps the rice cook more evenly and reduces the cooking time by maintaining a consistent temperature in the pan.

3. Resting Time After simmering, let the rice rest for at least 10 minutes instead of 5. This allows the grains to firm up and absorb the remaining steam, resulting in fluffier rice.

4. Adjust Lemon Flavor If you want a more intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest while being cautious with the juice to avoid overpowering the rice. This keeps the flavor balanced without making the dish too acidic.

5. Herb Infusion Add a small portion of the fresh herbs (dill and parsley) during the last minute of simmering for a slightly infused flavor, while reserving most for the final garnish to maintain their fresh taste and vibrant color.