This Greek Lemon Rice is zesty, fluffy, and super easy to make! With just rice, lemon juice, and a touch of herbs, it’s a bright side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.
I love the fresh lemon flavor; it really wakes up your taste buds! Plus, you can whip this up in just 35 minutes. Seriously, who doesn’t love a quick and tasty dish? 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: I use long-grain white rice for its fluffy texture and soft bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, jasmine rice can add a lovely floral note. Brown rice is a healthier choice, but it will require longer cooking time.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth adds depth. If you’re keeping it vegetarian or vegan, vegetable broth works perfectly too. You can also use water in a pinch, but it may lack the same flavor.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are crucial for that zesty flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, but I recommend fresh for the best taste. A splash of vinegar can also add tartness if needed.
Herbs: Parsley and dill are optional but recommended. They elevate the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can work, but use less since they are more concentrated.
How Do You Make Perfectly Fluffy Rice?
Getting fluffy rice is easier than you might think! Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch, which can make it gummy. After adding the broth, make sure to bring it to a boil first, then reduce the heat to low and cover it. This traps steam and allows the rice to cook evenly. Remember to let it rest afterward before fluffing; this step makes a big difference!
- Rinse rice until water runs clear to avoid sticky rice.
- Toast the rice in oil to enhance flavor and prevent clumping.
- Cover tightly while simmering to retain steam.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly fluffy Greek Lemon Rice every time!
Easy Greek Lemon Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Flavoring:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional Herbs:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek Lemon Rice can be prepared in just 35 minutes! That includes about 5 minutes of prep time to rinse and chop ingredients, followed by around 30 minutes for cooking and resting. A quick and flavorful addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, making your rice light and fluffy. Drain it well after rinsing.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Toast the Rice:
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat each grain with the olive oil and garlic. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This adds a wonderful flavor!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth, add the lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Rice:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
6. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. This step allows the rice to finish cooking and fluff up nicely!
7. Add Lemon Juice and Herbs:
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and dill (if you’re using it). These fresh herbs brighten the dish even more!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your fluffy lemon rice. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to suit your taste.
9. Serve:
Serve the warm Greek Lemon Rice as a vibrant side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Enjoy your quick and delicious Greek Lemon Rice!
FAQ for Easy Greek Lemon Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Generally, you’ll need to increase the simmering time to about 40-45 minutes and use 2 1/2 cups of broth for every cup of brown rice.
How Can I Store Leftover Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave or warm in a saucepan over low heat to prevent drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works great! Alternatively, you can use water with a splash of lemon juice for flavor—just note that the taste will differ slightly from using broth.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the rice and let it cool, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat and mix in the lemon juice and herbs for a fresh taste.
