Name: Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a side dish that outshines just about any plate it joins, this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) is your new must-have. Brimming with bright lemon flavor and fragrant herbs, the rice turns even ordinary weeknight dinners into something a little more special. Every spoonful is fluffy, vibrant, and subtly savory, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether served alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even on its own as a satisfying lunch. Trust me, once you’ve made this once, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is just how simple the ingredients are—each one playing an important role in creating the lively flavors and irresistible texture you expect from classic Greek Lemon Rice. Gather these staples and you’re halfway there!

Long-Grain White Rice or Basmati Rice: The foundation of the dish; both options yield fluffy, separate grains that never turn mushy when cooked properly.
Olive Oil: Adds rich flavor and a touch of Mediterranean warmth right from the start.
Onion: Diced small, it mellows out as it cooks, adding gentle sweetness and depth.
Garlic: Essential for its bold aroma and subtle bite; just two cloves make all the difference.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Infuses the rice with savory undertones—choose vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: The star ingredient, bringing a fresh burst that brightens every bite.
Lemon Zest: Adds an aromatic, slightly bittersweet dimension that elevates the whole dish.
Fresh Parsley or Dill: Chopped herbs add color and a lively finish. Pick your favorite, or mix both!
Salt: Rounds out the flavors; don’t forget you can adjust to your personal taste.
Black Pepper: Just a hint for mild warmth and subtle contrast to the citrus.

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes)

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This one simple step is a game-changer—it washes away the excess starch that can make rice clumpy or gummy. You want every grain to cook up light, separate, and perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, stirring often until they’re softened and fragrant. This only takes a couple of minutes, but don’t rush it; the gentle sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and forms the savory base of the Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes).

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Plug in some patience—it’s worth it! Stir the rinsed rice into the onions and garlic, coating every grain in olive oil. Allow it to toast for one to two minutes. The rice will take on a slightly nutty aroma, which deepens its flavor beautifully, hinting at the rich results to come.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Lemon

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Give the mixture a good stir, making sure nothing’s stuck to the bottom. The lemon instantly perks up the pot, promising those signature Mediterranean notes you’re craving.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

Crank up the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil. Once you see bubbling action, immediately lower it down to a simmer. Cover and let the rice cook undisturbed for 15 to 20 minutes. By the end, the liquid will be absorbed and the rice perfectly tender—it should smell amazing!

Step 6: Fluff and Garnish

Take the saucepan off the heat, but don’t peek! Let it sit, still covered, for 5 minutes. This little break lets the rice finish steaming. Fluff everything light and airy with a fork, then fold in your fresh parsley or dill. Taste for salt and pepper adjustments. Suddenly, you’ve got a bowlful of Greek sunshine.

How to Serve Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes)

Garnishes

This rice loves good company. Finish with more fresh herbs, a sprinkle of extra lemon zest, or a few toasted pine nuts for crunch. For a salty kick, crumble feta cheese right on top—it’s a match made in heavean with every forkful.

Side Dishes

Pair your Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) with roasted or grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, skewered shrimp, or even a simple vegetable medley. Its bright flavors act as a bridge, tying together a variety of classic Mediterranean favorites.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the rice into a shallow serving bowl and mound up a bit for effect. To impress dinner guests, try serving it inside roasted bell peppers or as a base for Greek-style lemon chicken. You can even roll it into grape leaves for homemade dolmades—talk about versatility!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare!), transfer cooled rice into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors only deepen overnight, letting the lemon and herbs work their magic.

Freezing

This Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) also freezes beautifully. Spoon portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, flattening for easy storage. Label and freeze for up to three months for a quick future side dish—just remember to let it cool completely before freezing!

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture, fluffing occasionally. If you prefer stovetop, warm gently in a skillet with a lid, again adding a bit of liquid to prevent dryness. Fresh herbs can be stirred in after warming to wake up the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white or basmati rice?

Yes, brown rice can work, but keep in mind the cooking time will be longer and you’ll need more broth—about 35 to 40 minutes to reach tender, fluffy perfection. The nuttiest flavor of brown rice is a lovely match for the bright lemon.

Is the Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) vegan?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. All other ingredients are plant-based, making this a naturally vegan-friendly dish everyone will love.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

This recipe is great for meal prepping. Make it a day in advance, then reheat as needed throughout the week. Add more fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon before serving to boost the flavor.

Why rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing removes excess surface starch, which helps keep your rice fluffy, separate, and far from gluey—a key texture secret in any Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes)!

Which herbs are best: dill or parsley?

Both herbs bring their own flair—parsley adds freshness, while dill offers a slightly tangy depth. Use whichever you prefer, or combine both for an extra herby punch that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re armed with this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes), you’re ready to add a zesty, sunshine-filled dish to your table any night of the week. Take the leap—your tastebuds (and your friends!) will thank you for serving up something so memorable, so easy, and seriously delicious.

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 12 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Greek Lemon Rice recipe is a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs elevate simple white rice into a fragrant and flavorful dish that will impress your family and guests.

Instructions

Preparation: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This ensures your rice comes out fluffy and not sticky.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Toast the Rice: Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the oil and take on a slightly nutty flavor.
Add Liquid and Lemon: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff and Garnish: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped fresh herbs. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.