If you’re searching for a zesty, sunshine-filled side that comes together with minimal fuss, you’ll fall in love with this Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe. Fluffy, aromatic rice gets brightened up with a generous splash of lemon juice, a hint of zest, and a touch of fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is refreshing. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or simply enjoying it on its own, this Greek-inspired rice brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table — and it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is how it transforms a handful of simple ingredients into something truly memorable. Each component plays a special role, from the olive oil’s richness to the parsley’s fresh green pop.
- Long-grain white rice: Rinsed well, this is the foundation for fluffy, separate grains that soak up all the flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics for a classic Mediterranean touch.
- Yellow onion: Finely chopped for a sweet, mellow base that enhances the rice’s flavor.
- Garlic: Minced for a punch of savory aroma that infuses every bite.
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth: Provides depth and savory notes; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: About 1–2 lemons, this is the star ingredient that delivers bright, tangy goodness.
- Lemon zest: Adds a fragrant, citrusy layer that takes the flavor to the next level.
- Salt: Just enough to bring out all the flavors without overpowering the lemon.
- Ground black pepper: For a subtle warmth and balance.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkled in at the end for color and a fresh, herbal finish.
- Optional lemon slices: For garnish and an extra burst of visual appeal.
How to Make Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. This gentle sauté brings out the onion’s sweetness and creates a delicious base. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just a minute more, letting it release its fragrant aroma without burning.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Stir the rinsed long-grain rice into the saucepan. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently. This quick toasting step isn’t just about flavor; it also helps the rice stay fluffy and separate by coating each grain with oil.
Step 3: Add the Liquid and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together so the rice is evenly coated and the flavors start to meld. The combination of broth and lemon is what gives this Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe its signature tang and savoriness.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Try not to peek—keeping the lid on ensures your rice cooks evenly and stays perfectly moist.
Step 5: Rest, Fluff, and Finish
Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This resting time allows the steam to finish cooking the rice. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork, stir in the chopped parsley, and garnish with lemon slices if you like. Now your Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is ready to serve warm and bright!
How to Serve Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Garnishes
For that authentic Greek restaurant flair, finish your rice with a sprinkle of extra chopped parsley and a few thin lemon slices or wedges. If you want to take it up a notch, a light dusting of crumbled feta or a pinch of dried oregano adds extra color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is the ultimate versatile side. Pair it with grilled chicken souvlaki, roasted lamb, or a platter of Mediterranean vegetables. It’s also perfect alongside Greek salad, tzatziki, or stuffed grape leaves for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the rice into small ramekins and inverting them onto plates for a beautiful molded presentation. Or serve it family-style in a colorful ceramic bowl, garnished with lemon and herbs for a festive touch at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen a bit overnight, making it a great meal prep option!
Freezing
If you want to stock up, portion the rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over the rice to help keep it moist, then microwave in short bursts until hot, fluffing with a fork between intervals. Alternatively, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and will need extra broth—usually about 10–15 more minutes and a bit more liquid. The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs beautifully with the lemon.
Is this Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a completely vegetarian dish. It’s just as flavorful and perfect for sharing with everyone at the table.
How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?
Make sure to rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch, and avoid stirring it too much while it simmers. Keeping the lid on also ensures the rice steams properly and stays fluffy.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Definitely! The flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge. Reheat just before serving and fluff with a fork for the best texture.
What herbs can I add for extra flavor?
Fresh dill or oregano are classic Greek additions that work beautifully here. Stir them in with the parsley at the end, or sprinkle a little on top as a garnish for a fragrant finish.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again—simple, bright, and guaranteed to bring a little Mediterranean magic to any meal. Give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a favorite at your table!
Print
Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is a flavorful and vibrant side dish featuring tender long-grain rice cooked with fresh lemon juice, zest, and aromatic herbs. Enhanced with olive oil and garlic, it embodies the bright, fresh flavors of Mediterranean cuisine while being quick and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed well
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Toast Rice: Add the rinsed long-grain rice to the pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the grains which enhances the flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Rest the Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the covered rice sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to steam and fluff.
- Finish and Serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness, and garnish with optional lemon slices. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried oregano or dill during cooking to boost the Mediterranean essence.
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier whole grain option; increase cooking time and liquid accordingly since brown rice takes longer to cook.
- Use vegetable broth to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Adjust salt according to taste, especially if using regular broth instead of low-sodium varieties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
