Description
Bright, zesty, and impossibly fluffy—this Irresistibly Delicious Greek Rice is a flavor-packed side dish ready in just 25 minutes. Made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, it’s the perfect partner for grilled meats, Mediterranean wraps, or veggie bowls. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, easy sides, or healthy food ideas, this rice fits the bill with minimal prep and maximum taste.
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional: chopped fresh dill or mint
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the uncooked rice to the pan. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to coat the rice and toast it lightly.
3. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, stir in parsley and optional herbs, and serve warm.
Notes
For added depth, include a pinch of oregano or thyme during cooking.
Brown rice works too—add ½ cup more broth and increase cooking time to 40–45 minutes.
When reheating leftovers, use a splash of broth or water to maintain fluffiness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg