Name: Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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If you’ve ever longed to bring the bright, uplifting flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen, Greek Lemon Rice is the perfect dish to start with. This vibrant pilaf is zesty, aromatic, and the ultimate comfort food, all wrapped up in a bowl of fragrant rice. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it comes together in less than half an hour, yet tastes as if it simmered all afternoon. Whether you serve it as a lively side for grilled meats or let it shine at the center of a meatless meal, Greek Lemon Rice is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe lineup!

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s real magic in the simplicity of these ingredients: every element brings either zest, creaminess, herbaceous lift, or color, ensuring your Greek Lemon Rice sings with flavor. Gather these pantry and fridge staples before you begin and you’re halfway to a heartwarming side dish.

Long-grain white rice: The classic choice for fluffy, separate grains that absorb all those bold flavors.
Olive oil: Adds Mediterranean richness and helps sauté onions for a savory base.
Onion (finely chopped): For sweetness and an aromatic, mellow backbone—make sure to chop finely so it melts seamlessly into the rice.
Garlic (minced): Brings an earthy complexity and irresistible aroma with just a hint of sharpness.
Chicken broth: Infuses a savory, umami depth that plain water just can’t deliver—use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Fresh lemon juice: The star of the show, for brightness and a zingy citrus twist that makes this rice unforgettable.
Lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon fragrance for that sunny, unmistakable lift.
Dried oregano: Adds a subtle herbal note that’s undeniably Greek.
Salt: Essential for drawing out all the flavors—taste and adjust as desired.
Black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and just the right balance to the lemony notes.
Fresh parsley (chopped): For color, freshness, and a light finish that ties everything together.

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice

Step 1: Rinse and Drain the Rice

Start by thoroughly rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step pays off in the final texture, washing away excess surface starch so every grain cooks up fluffy and separate. Let the rice drain completely so it sautés rather than steams in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until it’s soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it blooms with fragrance. This aromatic foundation infuses the rice with sweet and savory notes from the first bite.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Stir in the drained rice and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the rice grains ever so lightly in olive oil coats them and adds a subtle nuttiness, while also ensuring a beautiful, non-sticky end result for your Greek Lemon Rice.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Lemon

Pour in the chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a gentle stir, then bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover your saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes—resist the urge to peek! All the liquid will be absorbed, and the rice will become tender yet not mushy.

Step 5: Fluff and Finish with Herbs

Remove the rice from the heat and leave it covered for 5 minutes. This short rest allows steam to finish the cooking process. Fluff the Greek Lemon Rice gently with a fork, fold in the chopped fresh parsley, and watch your dish transform as the colors and flavors come alive. Serve warm for the best experience.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or a dusting of lemon zest makes your Greek Lemon Rice pop. For more robust flavor, add crumbled feta, toasted pine nuts, or a handful of sliced kalamata olives on top. A swirl of olive oil just before serving brings a beautiful sheen and a final touch of richness.

Side Dishes

This fragrant rice pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, roasted lamb, or any kind of seafood—think grilled shrimp skewers or baked salmon. Set out a bowl of Greek salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal, or serve the rice as part of a mezze platter with tzatziki, dolmades, and warm pita for a true taverna experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, try packing warm Greek Lemon Rice into a lightly oiled ramekin, then inverting onto plates for a beautiful molded effect. Scoop it into colorful bowls for a casual family meal, or use it to stuff bell peppers for a cheerful, fun twist. However you present it, the vibrant lemon and fresh herbs will shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Greek Lemon Rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a wonderful meal prep option for quick lunches or sides throughout the week.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze extra rice, spread it out on a tray to cool completely, then scoop into freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out as much air as possible before sealing, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To revive Greek Lemon Rice, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over the rice, cover lightly, and reheat in the microwave until steaming. Alternatively, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture. Fluff before serving and garnish again with fresh herbs if you like.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber, but keep in mind it will require extra cooking time and a little more broth. The end result will be a bit heartier but just as delicious.

Is Greek Lemon Rice gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients. Just make sure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free if cross-contamination is a concern.

Can I make this vegan?

Definitely. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to keep the dish entirely plant-based, without sacrificing any flavor or aroma.

What can I use instead of fresh parsley?

If you’re out of parsley, try fresh dill or mint for a different herbal twist. Even a bit of chopped green onion or chives can work in a pinch and keep your Greek Lemon Rice fresh and lively.

How can I add more protein?

Sauté some chickpeas or add cubes of grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on top before serving. You can also stir in feta cheese or toasted nuts for a satisfying boost of protein and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of Greek Lemon Rice—sunny, herby, and totally comforting. It’s a simple dish that never fails to brighten a meal or impress a table of friends. Give it a try soon, and you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A bright and flavorful Greek Lemon Rice recipe that is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or seafood. This dish is aromatic, with a refreshing citrus kick from lemon juice and zest.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons olive oil

Additional Ingredients:

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Rinse the rice: Under cold water until clear, then drain well.
Sauté onions and garlic: In olive oil until soft. Add rice and toast lightly.
Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in broth, lemon juice, zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer until rice is tender.
Finish and serve: Let sit, fluff with a fork, stir in parsley, and serve warm.