Description
This Easy Greek Lemon Rice is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that brightens any meal with its zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices. Perfectly cooked with vegetable broth and olive oil, this rice recipe is simple, wholesome, and quick to prepare, making it an excellent addition to Mediterranean-inspired dinners or as a standalone light dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (Brown rice can be used with adjusted cooking time.)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (Low-sodium options are great for controlling saltiness.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (Use extra virgin for optimal flavor.)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (Substitute with shallots for a milder taste.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (Avoid browning to prevent bitterness.)
- 1 medium lemon (Juice and zest for a bright kick.)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Fresh oregano can enhance vibrancy.)
- Salt, to taste (Adjust according to taste.)
- Pepper, to taste (Adjust according to taste.)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (Dill or mint can also be alternatives.)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers, preparing the base for sautéing.
- Sauté onion: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant, imparting sweetness to the dish.
- Add garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds without letting it brown to prevent bitterness.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes in the onion-garlic mixture to enhance its flavor and texture.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth along with oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer the rice: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes until fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with lemon and herbs: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to mix everything evenly.
- Serve: Serve the Greek lemon rice warm. Optionally, garnish with crumbled feta cheese or fresh dill for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a healthier twist, substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice, but increase cooking time to about 40-45 minutes.
- Use low-sodium vegetable broth to better control the salt level in the dish.
- Fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, dill, or mint can enhance the dish’s brightness when used instead of dried.
- Do not brown garlic as it can impart a bitter taste; cook only until fragrant.
- This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a light vegetarian main dish.
