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–+ servings
Easy Greek Lemon Rice

Easy Greek Lemon Rice That's Bursting with Flavor and Freshness

This Easy Greek Lemon Rice is a fluffy, gluten-free side that's bursting with flavor and freshness, perfect for complementing any meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 31 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice Rinse well to remove excess starch.
  • 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Use in two stages for enhanced flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil More butter can be used for a richer taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Omit for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Mince for even distribution.
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Turmeric Optional for color and flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Fresh zest is recommended.
  • ¼ cup Chopped Fresh Dill or Parsley Substitute with mint if desired.
Optional Add-ins
  • ½ cup Frozen Peas Adds color and sweetness.
  • ¼ cup Toasted Pine Nuts For added crunch.
  • ¼ cup Feta Cheese Sprinkle before serving for richness.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Fine-mesh strainer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Rinse the rice under cool running water for 2-3 minutes until the water runs clear. Drain well.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and turmeric, stirring until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the drained rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, coating it in the oil.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and add lemon juice, salt, and bay leaf. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover and reduce heat to low, cooking for 14-16 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Remove from heat and let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes.
  7. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in remaining lemon juice and zest.
  8. Discard the bay leaf and fold in fresh herbs before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 390mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Rinsing rice is crucial for fluffiness. Use low to medium heat to avoid burning garlic. Do not lift the lid during cooking. Letting rice rest before fluffing enhances texture.

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