It’s perfect when you want something a little different from plain rice, and it goes great with so many dishes. Plus, it’s quick and easy, making it perfect for busy nights. I’m a big rice eater. In its basic form, it’s a must with all of my favorite curries and stews. But sometimes I like to give it a little boost. We often whip up a quick Cilantro Lime Rice or Saffron Rice, and I just love Puerto Rican Arroz con Gandules. But when it’s time for some tasty Greek night, the only way to go is this tangy Lemon Rice!
Ingredients Needed
Olive Oil – A must for any Greek style food. Onion and Garlic – Aromatics. White Rice – I like to use Basmati rice for this recipe, but you can use any rice you like. Chicken Broth – Flavor booster. Parsley – I love the zest it gives as final touch. Dill – Adds unique flavor to this Greek rice. Lemon – Gives the rice its signature lemony flavor.
Easy Lemon Rice Recipe
I start by heating olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, I add the onion and sauté it until it starts to become translucent. Then, I add the garlic and cook it for another minute. Next, I add the rice and sauté it for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. After that, I pour in the chicken broth and mix everything well. I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20 minutes. Once the rice is cooked, I remove it from the heat, open the lid, and fluff the rice with a fork. Then, I add in the parsley, dill, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and mix everything until well combined. This adds a burst of fresh flavor to the rice, making it absolutely delicious!
Recipe Notes and Tips
Rice Choice: While basmati is my favorite for its light, fluffy texture, other long-grain white rices can also work. If using regular long-grain rice, I rinse it well to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming sticky. Lemon Zest: Be sure to zest the lemon before juicing it. It’s much easier! Also, using a fine grater or zester ensures you only get the outer yellow layer, avoiding the bitter white pith. Adjusting Tanginess: The acidity of lemons can vary. I always taste and adjust the lemon juice for more or less pronounced lemon flavor.
Serving Suggestions
I remember serving this rice with Psari Plaki, a Greek fish dish last month to our friends, and they absolutely loved this pairing. It is also my go-to side dish for Chicken Souvlaki or Steak Gyros. Round out the meal with a Greek Salad. We also have a wonderful lamb recipe called Kleftiko, which goes so well with this rice. Looking beyond Greek food, other mains that pair so well are Grilled Chicken Thighs, Skillet Pork Chops, Fish en Papillote, Baked Sockeye Salmon and Shish Kabob.
Variations
Sometimes I swap white rice with brown rice. Adjust cooking times as necessary. Sometimes Greek rice includes orzo, similar to rice pilaf. Add it in and toast it along with the rice. While dill and parsley are classic, for a little different flavor profile add in a little fresh mint. I like to sprinkle in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds at the end for crunch and nutty flavors. Add some veggies. Think peas, carrots or bell peppers.
Give your basic rice a bright and Mediterranean makeover with this easy Greek inspired recipe. It just might become one of your go-to ways to cook rice! Pin or bookmark this great recipe so you always know where to find it. And be sure to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new recipes for you!
Greek Lemon Rice, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!
Try these other rice dishes:Spanish Chicken and RiceNasi GorengJambalayaJollof RicePork Fried RiceCajun Dirty RiceLebanese HashwehJamaican Rice and PeasThai Basil Fried Rice
