Description
Light and Flavorful Greek Lemon Rice is a deliciously zesty dish that elevates any meal. This simple yet flavorful rice recipe features fluffy grains infused with lemon zest, garlic, and oregano, making it an excellent side for grilled meats or vegetables, as well as a satisfying main course on its own. Perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, or quick lunches, this versatile dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for meal prep. Enjoy the bright citrus flavor in every bite while embracing the health benefits of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup long grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the rice to the pot, stirring to coat it in the oil mixture. Toast the rice for about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth along with lemon juice, zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat but keep covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving and garnish with parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg