Description
Greek Lemon Rice is a vibrant and fresh dish characterized by the bright flavors of lemon juice and zest, aromatic sautéed onions and garlic, and the subtle herbaceous notes of dill or parsley. This light and irresistible rice dish uses medium-grain rice cooked in vegetable or chicken broth with a perfect balance of olive oil, making it a perfect side for many Mediterranean-inspired meals or a flavorful vegetarian option on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup medium-grain rice (Carolina or Calrose)
- 2–3 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1 finely diced yellow or white onion
- 1–2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely dice the onion, mince the garlic, zest the lemons, and juice them. Measure out the rice and broth to have all ingredients ready before cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Rice: Add the medium-grain rice to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the rice with olive oil, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the rice edges become translucent.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then immediately add the fresh lemon juice and most of the lemon zest. Stir well and season with 1 teaspoon sea salt and a generous pinch of freshly cracked black pepper.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting. Cover tightly with a lid and simmer undisturbed for 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked through.
- Rest the Rice: Turn off the heat and keep the pot covered. Let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes to finish steaming and absorb flavors.
- Fluff and Finish: Remove lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in freshly chopped dill or parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Spoon the warm rice into bowls, optionally garnishing with extra fresh herbs and lemon zest for presentation.
Notes
- Use medium-grain rice like Carolina or Calrose for best texture and flavor absorption.
- For a vegan version, use vegetable broth; chicken broth adds a richer flavor.
- Fresh lemon zest enhances the brightness and aroma of the dish.
- Do not stir the rice while it simmers to prevent mushiness.
- Letting the rice rest off the heat allows it to steam perfectly for tenderness.
- Fresh dill and parsley both complement the lemony flavor—use your preference or a mix.
