Name: Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Zest of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Description

This easy Greek Lemon Rice recipe is a flavorful and vibrant side dish that combines fragrant long-grain rice with zesty lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables, this dish brings a bright Mediterranean touch to your meal with simple ingredients and straightforward stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Broth

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

Seasoning and Flavorings

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Zest of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Rinse Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent sticking.
Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Toast Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the grains, which enhances the flavor.
Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer gently for 15–18 minutes until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Rest Rice: Remove the pan from heat and keep it covered, allowing the rice to rest and steam for 5 minutes, which helps it become fluffy.
Fluff and Flavor: Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley to brighten the flavor and add freshness.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the rice and adjust seasoning if necessary with additional salt or lemon juice, then serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes.

Notes

For a brighter lemon flavor, increase the amount of fresh lemon juice to taste.
You can substitute brown rice for a whole grain option, but increase the cooking time and broth amount accordingly.
This lemon rice pairs excellently with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal.