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Easy Greek Lemon Rice

Zesty Easy Greek Lemon Rice: Your New Favorite Side Dish

Easy Greek Lemon Rice is a vibrant, gluten-free side dish that's quick to prepare, featuring garlic and a zesty lemon kick.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Rinse well to remove excess starch.
For Cooking
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth For a vegetarian version, swap with vegetable broth.
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil You can replace it with melted butter for a different touch.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Feel free to omit for a dairy-free option.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced.
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to your taste.
For Brightness
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Always use freshly squeezed.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Finely grated.
Optional Additions
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Remove before serving.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley Can swap with mint or other herbs.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cool water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Zest one lemon and mince three cloves of garlic, setting them aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the grains are glossy and slightly translucent.
  4. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Add a bay leaf if desired. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Once simmering, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for 14 to 16 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
  7. Stir in the remaining lemon juice and zest. Mix in chopped fresh dill or parsley if desired. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, rinse the rice thoroughly and avoid lifting the lid during cooking.

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