Description
Greek Lemon Rice is a bright and flavorful side dish featuring long-grain white rice cooked in chicken broth with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for complementing Mediterranean-inspired meals and adds a zesty, aromatic touch to your dining table.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness.
- Combine liquids and seasonings: In a large saucepan, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful cooking liquid.
- Bring to a boil: Set the saucepan over high heat and bring the broth mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add rice and simmer: Stir in the rinsed rice, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cook covered: Cover the saucepan tightly and let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Rest the rice: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fully absorb flavors.
- Fluff the rice: Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains for a light and airy texture.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the rice for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your Greek Lemon Rice as a vibrant and tasty side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice helps remove surface starch and prevents clumping.
- Adjust lemon juice amount to taste for more or less tanginess.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you want to control salt levels better.
- For a vegan version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Letting the rice rest off heat helps achieve fluffy grains.
