This Greek Lemon Rice is a bright, flavorful side dish that perfectly complements Mediterranean meals. Made with fragrant herbs, fresh lemon juice, and fluffy long-grain rice, it’s light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, lamb, seafood, or enjoy it as a simple vegetarian main course!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light, fluffy, and packed with fresh lemon flavor
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect side dish for Mediterranean and Greek-inspired meals
- Uses simple pantry staples
- Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine works well)
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Dried oregano
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for fluffy rice.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until the grains are lightly toasted.
- Cook the rice: Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and finish: Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf: Add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra texture.
- Spicy Version: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh mint, thyme, or basil for additional Mediterranean flavors.
- Low-Carb Option: Use riced cauliflower instead of traditional rice and cook for a shorter time.
Storage/Reheating
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Microwave with a splash of water or reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
- Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What type of rice works best for Greek lemon rice?
Long-grain white rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works best for a fluffy and light texture.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking and avoid overcooking—follow the timing closely and fluff with a fork once done.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it completely vegan.
What can I serve with Greek lemon rice?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. A side of tzatziki sauce is also a great addition.
Can I add vegetables to the rice?
Yes, chopped spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is Greek lemon rice gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients are gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the brown rice package instructions.
What herbs work best for garnish?
Fresh dill, parsley, or mint complement the flavors of the lemon rice perfectly.
Can I prepare Greek lemon rice ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Greek Lemon Rice is light, refreshing, and bursting with citrusy flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for Mediterranean-inspired meals and comes together easily in just 30 minutes. Whether paired with grilled meats, fish, or enjoyed on its own, this vibrant dish is sure to become a staple on your table!
Print
Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Description
This Greek Lemon Rice is bright, flavorful, and infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or Mediterranean-inspired meals. Light and fluffy with a citrusy punch, this rice is a great complement to dishes like chicken souvlaki, lamb, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Sauté the aromatics:
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Toast the rice:
- Add the rice to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
3. Cook the rice:
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Fluff and garnish:
- Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and stir in fresh parsley or dill.
- Adjust seasoning with extra lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.
5. Serve:
- Serve warm as a side dish with grilled chicken, lamb, fish, or vegetables.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use butter instead of olive oil.
- Add pine nuts or toasted almonds for extra crunch.
- Swap white rice for quinoa or brown rice for a healthier option (adjust cooking time).