This Easy Greek Lemon Rice is a bright and zesty side dish that comes together in just 35 minutes! With fluffy rice, tangy lemon juice, and fresh herbs, it’s a simple delight.
I love how this rice adds a pop of flavor to any meal. Plus, it’s so easy, I can whip it up while keeping an eye on my favorite show. Who says cooking can’t be fun? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine works best for a light, fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a whole grain option, you can use brown rice, but it will require more cooking time and liquid. Quinoa is also a great gluten-free substitute!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder (1 teaspoon) instead. Green onions or shallots also make a nice substitute.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a lovely flavor to the rice. You could replace it with any cooking oil like canola or avocado oil if you prefer a more neutral taste.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the rice. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is an option, but use it sparingly as it’s usually more concentrated.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) can be used as a substitute, though fresh garlic is always better!
What’s the Best Way to Fluff Rice After Cooking?
Fluffing rice properly ensures it’s light and not clumpy. Here’s how:
- After cooking, remove the rice from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- Use a fork, not a spoon, to gently lift and separate the grains. This technique helps avoid breaking the grains and creates a nice texture.
- Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley gently, mixing just until combined.
This simple technique makes a big difference in the final dish!
Easy Greek Lemon Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need approximately 35 minutes total to prepare this Easy Greek Lemon Rice. This includes about 10 minutes for prep work and 25 minutes for cooking and steaming the rice. It’s a quick, flavorful side dish that easily complements many main courses!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear, then drain it well to get rid of any excess water.
2. Sauté the Onion:
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. This will add a nice flavor base to your rice.
3. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the onion and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Toast the Rice:
Now, add the rinsed and drained rice to your pan. Stir everything together so that the rice gets coated in the olive oil and mixes with the onion and garlic. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, giving it a slight crunch and nutty flavor.
5. Cook the Rice:
Next, pour in the water or chicken broth and season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low right away, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes. This will ensure the rice absorbs the flavors nicely.
6. Steam the Rice:
After the cooking time is up, remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps to steam the rice and make it fluffy.
7. Fluff and Mix:
Use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Then, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together to mix those lovely flavors evenly throughout the rice.
8. Season and Serve:
Give the rice a taste, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly ground black pepper if you like. Finally, serve the lemon rice warm and garnish with lemon slices if desired. It’s a perfect pairing for grilled meats, fish, or a refreshing Greek salad!
Enjoy your bright, flavorful Greek lemon rice, ready in just 35 minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option! Just keep in mind that brown rice typically requires more water (about 2.5 cups) and a longer cooking time—around 40-45 minutes—so adjust accordingly.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
To keep this recipe vegetarian or vegan, simply use water or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be delicious and flavorful!
How Should I Store Leftover Greek Lemon Rice?
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Recipe?
Definitely! Consider adding vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can sauté them with the onion or mix them in during the last few minutes of cooking!
