Description

Greek Lemon Rice is more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant, flavorful experience that transports your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. The harmonious blend of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked basmati rice creates a dish that’s both refreshing and comforting. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoying it on its own, Greek Lemon Rice is a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped (red onion works too)

1 cup basmati rice, soaked and drained or thoroughly washed

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp organic lemon zest

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian/vegan options)

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tbsp fresh dill, or to taste

1 tbsp fresh parsley, or to taste

1/4 tsp ground cumin

1/4 tsp dried oregano

1 pinch turmeric (optional for vibrant color)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for serving)

Extra lemon juice (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.

Add the soaked and drained basmati rice and lemon zest. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the rice.

Pour in the broth, lemon juice, dill, parsley, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and turmeric. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice cook for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender but not sticky.

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 10 minutes. Uncover, fluff the rice with a fork, and taste to adjust seasonings if needed. For an extra touch of richness, stir in unsalted butter before serving.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

Greek Lemon Rice is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. It’s perfect alongside grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef, and works beautifully with roasted or sautéed vegetables.

For a vegetarian or vegan meal, serve it with a fresh Greek salad or Mediterranean roasted vegetables.

Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, olives, or a drizzle of extra lemon juice for extra Mediterranean flair.

It can also be served as a light lunch on its own, topped with some roasted chickpeas or a dollop of hummus.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Greek Lemon Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the rice has cooled down to room temperature before storing it to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the rice for up to 1 month. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to restore its texture.

Reheating: Reheat the rice in a covered saucepan over low heat with a small amount of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

With these serving and storage tip