Name: Light and Flavorful Greek Lemon Rice for Every Occasion
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati); 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 garlic clove, minced (optional); ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill (or both)

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Greek Lemon Rice is a bright, zesty side dish that brings a fresh Mediterranean twist to any meal. Light yet satisfying, it’s the perfect companion for grilled meats, seafood, or even as a base for veggie-packed bowls. I love how the lemon and herbs elevate simple rice into something special, without overpowering the rest of the plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this rice is both simple and elegant. The lemon brings a refreshing tang, while herbs like dill or parsley add a pop of green and flavor. It’s not heavy, so I can pair it with just about anything—from roasted chicken to falafel. Whether I’m cooking for a casual lunch or a festive dinner, this dish always fits right in. And the best part? It’s just as tasty warm, at room temperature, or cold.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Long-grain white rice or basmati rice
Olive oil
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Chicken broth or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Optional: green onions, crumbled feta, or a pinch of oregano

Directions

I start by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear—this helps keep the rice fluffy.
In a saucepan, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
I add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
I stir in the rice and toast it for a minute to enhance its flavor.
I pour in the broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, season with salt and pepper, and bring everything to a gentle boil.
I reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid—usually about 15 to 18 minutes.
Once done, I fluff the rice with a fork and stir in fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings as a side dish. It takes around 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Variations

I use brown rice for a more nutritious version—it just needs a longer cooking time.
I stir in crumbled feta for a creamy, salty touch.
For extra color and texture, I mix in diced tomatoes or chopped spinach.
I sometimes add a pinch of oregano or cumin for a deeper Mediterranean flavor.
I swap broth with water when I want a lighter, more neutral version.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover lemon rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to bring back its moisture. It’s also great served cold in grain bowls or alongside salads.

FAQs

Can I make this rice ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. I just reheat gently and fluff it with a fork before serving, adding a bit of lemon juice if needed.

What kind of rice works best?

I usually use long-grain white or basmati rice because they stay fluffy and separate after cooking.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, I’ve used bottled—it still works, though not as bright.

Is this dish vegan?

It is if I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. I skip any cheese garnish for a fully plant-based option.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, I’ve turned it into a main by adding chickpeas, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. It’s super versatile.

Conclusion

Light and Flavorful Greek Lemon Rice is one of those side dishes I come back to again and again. It’s easy, refreshing, and pairs well with just about everything. Whether I’m looking to brighten up a weeknight dinner or round out a Mediterranean-inspired spread, this rice always delivers a burst of citrusy goodness with minimal effort.