Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh lemon juice creates a tangy and aromatic profile that elevates plain rice to a new level.
- Versatile Side Dish: Complements a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian entrees, making it a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
- Simple and Quick: With straightforward ingredients and a total time of about 30 minutes, it’s an easy addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup basmati rice, soaked and drained or thoroughly washed
- 2 teaspoons organic lemon zest
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian/vegan version)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for serving)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Toast the Rice: Add the washed basmati rice and lemon zest to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the rice is slightly toasted.
- Add Liquids and Herbs: Pour in the broth and lemon juice. Stir in the dill, parsley, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, and turmeric (if using). Mix well and bring to a boil uncovered.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquids have evaporated and the rice is tender but not sticky. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Optionally, stir in unsalted butter for added richness or top with extra lemon juice or crumbled feta cheese.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Herb Substitutions: Feel free to substitute or add other fresh herbs like mint or basil to suit your taste.
- Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the butter to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Additional Add-ins: Incorporate vegetables such as peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Avoid leaving the cooked rice at room temperature for longer than an hour for safety reasons.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, until hot. Alternatively, microwave for 60-90 seconds until steaming hot. Do not reheat more than once for safety reasons.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use other long-grain rice varieties like jasmine rice. However, the cooking time and texture may vary.
2. Is it necessary to wash the rice before cooking?
Yes, washing or soaking the rice removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier, non-sticky rice.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
4. What main dishes pair well with Greek Lemon Rice?
It pairs excellently with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables.
5. How can I make the rice more yellow?
Adding a pinch of turmeric during cooking will enhance the yellow color of the rice.
6. Can I freeze Greek Lemon Rice?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
Greek Lemon Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Greek Lemon Rice is a vibrant and zesty Mediterranean side dish made with fresh lemon juice, herbs, and a hint of turmeric. Perfect with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian entrees, this easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup basmati rice, soaked and drained or washed thoroughly
- 2 teaspoons organic lemon zest
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegan/vegetarian)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (4-5 minutes).
- Toast Rice: Add washed basmati rice and lemon zest. Sauté for 1 minute, stirring to prevent sticking.
- Add Liquids & Herbs: Stir in broth, lemon juice, dill, parsley, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and turmeric (if using). Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Rest & Serve: Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in butter for added flavor, if desired.
Notes
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (4-5 minutes).
- Toast Rice: Add washed basmati rice and lemon zest. Sauté for 1 minute, stirring to prevent sticking.
- Add Liquids & Herbs: Stir in broth, lemon juice, dill, parsley, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and turmeric (if using). Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Rest & Serve: Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in butter for added flavor, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Greek
