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Bright Zesty Greek Lemon Rice: The Ultimate Mediterranean Side Dish

This vibrant Greek lemon rice brings sunny Mediterranean flavors to your table with bright citrus notes, aromatic herbs, and fluffy texture. It transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried dill
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and onion mixture. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains become slightly translucent around the edges.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice, then add the dried oregano, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the fresh parsley.
  5. Transfer the lemon rice to a serving dish and garnish with lemon slices and additional fresh herbs. Serve warm as a side dish.

Notes

Choose long-grain white rice for best results, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled, and don't skip toasting the rice for deeper flavor. The rice reheats well and makes excellent leftovers.