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Greek Lemon Rice

A bright and flavorful Mediterranean rice dish infused with fresh lemon, garlic, herbs, and olive oil. Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 240
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Rice Base
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 lemons zested and juiced
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter optional

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Citrus zester
  • Chef knife

Method
 

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  5. Add the rice and toast lightly for 2 minutes while stirring.
  6. Pour in broth and add oregano, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and half the lemon juice.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly.
  8. Simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  9. Remove from heat and let the rice rest covered for 10 minutes.
  10. Fluff with a fork and stir in remaining lemon juice, parsley, and butter if desired.
  11. Serve warm garnished with parsley and lemon slices.

Notes

For extra Mediterranean flavor, stir in crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts before serving.