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Greek Lemon Rice

Zesty Greek Lemon Rice: A Light and Lively Side Dish

This Greek Lemon Rice features bright flavors and a fluffy texture, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain rice can substitute with basmati or jasmine
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth using water is an option but enhances taste
For the Aromatics
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can swap in butter for creamier finish
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 1 zest lemon select firm, glossy lemons for best zesting
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice add at the end of cooking for maximum brightness
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano fresh herbs can enhance flavor further
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
For the Finish
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Greek Lemon Rice
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain rice, coating each grain with oil and aromatics. Cook the rice for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly toast.
  3. Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Increase heat to bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice absorbs all the liquid.
  5. Remove from heat and keep covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, add fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 4gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating for moisture.

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