Name: Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)

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If you adore Mediterranean flavors and crave a truly vibrant side dish, Greek Lemon Rice is about to become one of your favorites. This gluten-free, vegetarian rice pilaf is lush with citrusy brightness, herbaceous notes, and just enough savory depth to elevate any meal. The burst of fresh lemon dancing through delicate grains, mingling with tender onion, garlic, and fresh herbs, creates an utterly irresistible combination that’s as cozy with a weeknight roast as it is with a lavish Greek feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Greek Lemon Rice is a breeze, and every single component plays a starring role. These essentials don’t just create flavor—they bring beautiful color, pillowy texture, and a feast for your senses.

Long-grain white rice: Rinsing the rice ensures fluffy, separated grains that soak up all the flavor.
Olive oil: The heart of Mediterranean cooking, olive oil adds a silky richness and helps bloom the aromatics.
Onion: Finely chopped onion brings gentle sweetness and depth to the rice.
Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced, provide just the right kick of savoriness.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Using broth instead of water infuses the rice with a backbone of savory goodness. Choose low-sodium for balance.
Fresh lemon juice: The signature of Greek Lemon Rice—use freshly squeezed for the brightest, freshest flavor.
Lemon zest: This adds an extra layer of floral, citrusy aroma that lingers with every bite.
Salt: Just enough to season every grain.
Black pepper: A pinch of black pepper sharpens the flavors nicely.
Fresh parsley: Stirred in at the end, parsley brings a pop of green and an herbaceous lift.
Fresh dill (optional): If you love classic Greek flavors, dill is the herby final touch that makes this dish sing.

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it sizzle gently, stirring often until the onion turns soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic next, stirring and cooking for one additional minute until the aroma intensifies. This gentle sauté builds the flavor base for your Greek Lemon Rice, so be patient and let those onions get sweet and fragrant.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Now, stir in your rinsed rice, coating each grain with that glossy, aromatic oil. A brief toasting (about 1 to 2 minutes) pumps up the nutty flavor and helps the rice to stay fluffy after cooking. You’ll notice a subtle change in scent as the rice warms up—this is when the magic really kicks off! Don’t rush this step, as it seals in flavor and gives Greek Lemon Rice its signature texture.

Step 3: Simmer With Broth and Citrus

Pour in your vegetable or chicken broth (your kitchen will already smell incredible!), then add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well, scraping the bottom of the pan to make sure no flavorful bits are left behind. Bring the mixture to a cheerful boil, then turn the heat down low, cover with a tight lid, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and fragrant citrus, turning perfectly tender.

Step 4: Let It Rest, Then Fluff

Once the liquid is fully absorbed, take the pan off the heat but keep it covered. Let the rice sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. This rest period makes the grains finish steaming and prevents them from sticking together. After resting, open the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and release a cloud of lemony aroma.

Step 5: Finish With Herbs and Serve

Finally, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and dill (if using). The fresh herbs add color and a lively, herbal note that beautifully complements the zesty rice. Taste and add extra lemon zest if you like it especially tangy. Spoon the Greek Lemon Rice onto your favorite platter or serve warm in a bowl, ready for its moment in the spotlight!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Rice

Garnishes

The right garnishes can transform your Greek Lemon Rice from humble to holiday-worthy. A scatter of extra lemon zest or finely chopped herbs (think parsley, dill, or even mint) makes the rice look as fresh as it tastes. Toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil also add delicious texture and sheen.

Side Dishes

Greek Lemon Rice is the ideal companion to so many dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, lamb, fish, or roasted vegetables. It soaks up juices from any saucy entrée and balances bold proteins with its light citrus flavor. For a true Greek feast, pair it with tzatziki, feta cheese, olives, and a crisp cucumber salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual dinners or parties, try serving Greek Lemon Rice in colorful bowls or alongside a big platter of kabobs. Stuff it into roasted peppers for a vibrant main, or spoon it into lettuce cups for a fun, hand-held appetizer. This rice is as easy to dress up as it is to scoop right from the pot!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Greek Lemon Rice, you’re in luck—it stores beautifully. Cool it completely, then transfer to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more irresistible for lunch the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, spoon the cooled rice into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Press the rice flat in bags for easy, quick thawing. When you’re ready to reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting.

Reheating

To bring back the steamy, fluffy texture, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over the rice and gently reheat in a covered saucepan or in the microwave. Stir once or twice and fluff again with a fork. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to refresh its zingy taste.

FAQs

Can I make Greek Lemon Rice with brown rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will give you a nuttier flavor and boost the nutrition, but it does need more time to cook—typically 40 to 45 minutes—and a little extra broth since it soaks up more liquid. The results are delicious and hearty.

What should I do if the rice seems dry after cooking?

If your rice turns out a bit dry, simply fluff it with a fork and drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of warm broth before serving. A quick cover and steam for a few minutes should bring back its delectable softness.

How can I boost the lemon flavor?

If you want your Greek Lemon Rice ultra-lemony, add an extra teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest right before serving. You can also finely chop a bit of preserved lemon rind for a bold, salty punch.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use vegetable broth, this recipe is fully vegan and naturally gluten-free. It’s a safe and delicious option for a variety of dietary needs at the dinner table.

Can I make Greek Lemon Rice ahead for a party?

Definitely. Prepare the rice as directed, cool completely, and store covered in the refrigerator. Just before serving, gently reheat and fluff with a bit more lemon juice and fresh herbs for that just-cooked freshness.

Final Thoughts

Greek Lemon Rice is simple to make but brimming with sunshiny flavor and timeless appeal. Whether you’re serving it with Mediterranean classics or your favorite weeknight roast, one bite is all it takes to fall in love. Grab your lemons and give this recipe a try—you’ll want to make Greek Lemon Rice again and again!

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

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4.5 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Greek Lemon Rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that perfectly complements a variety of main courses. With a refreshing citrus kick from lemon juice and zest, this dish is easy to make and adds a Mediterranean touch to your meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

Seasonings and Garnish:

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a saucepan, sauté onion until soft, add garlic.
Cook Rice: Stir in rinsed rice, pour in broth, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15–18 minutes.
Finish and Serve: Let rice sit covered for 5 minutes, fluff with a fork, stir in parsley and dill. Serve warm.