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
