Quick Lemon and Herb Greek Rice Recipe That Dazzles Every Time

Bright, zesty lemon and herb Greek rice crafts ordinary side dishes into Mediterranean culinary magic.

Mediterranean kitchens have long celebrated this vibrant combination of fresh ingredients and simple techniques.

Tangy citrus notes dance alongside aromatic herbs, creating a harmonious flavor profile that elevates any meal.

Ancient cooking traditions inspire this light, refreshing rice preparation that bursts with natural goodness.

Fragrant herbs provide depth and complexity, while lemon adds a sparkling, sun-kissed dimension to each delightful bite.

Comfort meets excitement in this versatile dish that promises to delight your taste buds and transport you to coastal Greek landscapes.

You’ll want to make this recipe again and again for its incredible balance of flavors.

Lemon and Herb Greek Rice with a Mediterranean Kick

• Burst with Zesty Freshness: The combination of lemon zest and juice creates a bright, tangy flavor that instantly awakens your taste buds with a refreshing Mediterranean twist.
• Foolproof Cooking Method: This one-pot rice dish is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or novice cooks looking for a stress-free cooking experience.
• Herb-Infused Comfort: The Greek seasoning and fresh parsley bring deep, aromatic layers of flavor that transform ordinary rice into a restaurant-worthy side dish packed with herb-filled goodness.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, offering a speedy solution for delicious, home-cooked meals that don't compromise on taste or quality.

Ingredients for Lemon and Herb Greek Rice

Main Ingredients:

Rice: A classic long-grain white rice provides the perfect base for this Greek-inspired dish, offering a fluffy and light texture.

Chicken Broth: Essential for adding depth of flavor and moisture to the rice, helping to create a rich and savory profile.

Olive Oil: Provides a smooth, rich foundation for sautéing and adds authentic Mediterranean flavor to the dish.

Aromatics and Seasonings:

Onion, Garlic: Fresh aromatics that build a flavor base, adding sweetness and depth to the rice.

Greek Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings authentic Mediterranean taste and warmth to the dish.

Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, clean flavor and beautiful green color as a finishing touch.

Citrus and Zest:

Lemon: Brings a vibrant, tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish, with both zest and juice adding layers of fresh citrus flavor.

How to Cook Lemon and Herb Greek Rice Flawlessly

Step 1: Prepare Cooking Equipment

Grab a large saucepan and olive oil for creating this delicious Greek-inspired rice dish.

Step 2: Sauté Rice Base

• Rice
• Onion
• Garlic

Stir frequently until rice edges turn golden and onions become soft.

Step 3: Build Flavor Foundation

• Chicken broth
• Greek seasoning

Mix ingredients thoroughly. Bring mixture to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer Rice

Cover the saucepan and cook rice for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.

Step 5: Rest Rice

Remove pan from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Finish With Citrus and Herbs

Remove lid and gently fluff rice with a fork.

Zest lemon directly over rice using a microplane grater.

Slice lemon in half and squeeze juice into rice.

Sprinkle chopped parsley and stir gently.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Transfer rice to serving dish and enjoy hot.

Tips to Boost Flavor in Greek Rice Dishes

• Toasting Rice Perfectly: Stir the rice constantly while it's browning to prevent burning and ensure even, golden color that adds depth of flavor.
• Liquid Ratio Matters: Use exact measurements of chicken broth to achieve fluffy, not sticky rice that maintains ideal texture.
• Seasoning Secret: Crush Greek seasoning between your fingers before adding to release more intense herbal aromatics into the dish.
• Lemon Zesting Technique: Grate lemon zest directly over the rice to maximize essential oils and brighten the overall flavor profile.
• Resting is Crucial: Allow rice to sit covered after cooking to let steam redistribute, creating uniformly tender grains throughout the pot.

Best Storage for Lemon and Herb Greek Rice

• Refrigerator Storage
• Transfer leftover rice to an airtight container and seal tightly. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Properly stored rice will stay delicious for 3-4 days.
• Freezer Preservation
• Freeze rice in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and contents. Frozen rice keeps well for up to one month without losing its texture or flavor.
• Reheating Method
• Warm refrigerated rice in the microwave by adding a splash of water to restore moisture. Stir halfway through heating to ensure even temperature. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking and maintain the rice's fluffy texture.

What Complements Lemon and Herb Greek Rice

• Zesty Seafood Companion: Pair this lemony rice with grilled shrimp or baked salmon for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that brings bright, fresh flavors together.
• Wine and Dine Delight: Choose a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko from Greece or a Sauvignon Blanc to complement the herb and citrus notes in the rice.
• Protein Power Match: Grilled chicken marinated in Greek yogurt and herbs creates a perfect protein partner that enhances the rice's light and tangy profile.
• Green and Clean Side: Serve alongside a simple Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese to add refreshing crunch and balance to the dish.

Greek Rice Variations You’ll Want to Try

• Mediterranean Quinoa Swap: Replace rice with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative that cooks faster and offers a complete nutrient profile.
• Seafood Infusion: Add sautéed shrimp or diced white fish during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a coastal Greek-inspired protein boost.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and mix in roasted chickpeas or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and plant-based protein.
• Spicy Greek Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the initial sautéing stage to add a warm, zesty dimension to the traditional recipe.

Lemon And Herb Greek Rice Recipe

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4.6 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Zesty lemon and aromatic herbs dance through this classic Greek rice dish, bringing Mediterranean sunshine to your plate. Fragrant rice infused with dill, parsley, and citrus notes promises a simple yet elegant side that transports you to the Greek islands.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups long grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 lemon

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning
• 2 tablespoons minced parsley

Aromatics and Base:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ medium onion, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

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Instructions

1. Warm a generously sized saucepan with olive oil over medium heat, creating a fragrant cooking environment.
2. Introduce uncooked rice, finely chopped onions, and minced garlic into the heated oil, continuously stirring until rice develops a delicate golden hue and onions become translucent and tender.
3. Pour chicken broth and Greek seasoning into the pan, thoroughly mixing the ingredients to ensure even distribution.
4. Elevate the liquid to a robust boil, then immediately reduce temperature to a gentle simmer, covering the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for approximately 15 minutes over low-medium heat, enabling the grains to absorb the aromatic liquid completely.
6. After cooking time concludes, remove the pan from heat and let it rest, lid secured, for an additional 10 minutes to ensure perfect texture and moisture absorption.
7. Uncover the pan and delicately separate rice grains using a fork, creating a light, fluffy consistency.
8. Using a microplane grater, sprinkle fresh lemon zest directly over the rice, releasing vibrant citrus oils.
9. Slice the lemon in half and squeeze its bright juice into the rice, then incorporate finely chopped fresh parsley, gently folding to distribute flavors evenly.
10. Transfer the herb-infused rice to serving dishes and present immediately while warm, offering a tantalizing Mediterranean-inspired side dish.

Notes

• Elevate your weeknight dinner with this zesty Mediterranean-inspired rice that bursts with bright lemon and herbaceous flavors.
• Toasting the rice before adding liquid creates a nutty, golden-edged texture that enhances the overall taste and aroma.
• Greek seasoning adds authentic Mediterranean depth, transforming simple rice into a restaurant-worthy side dish.
• Letting the rice rest after cooking allows steam to redistribute, ensuring each grain is perfectly fluffy and tender.
• Fresh lemon zest and juice provide a vibrant, tangy finish that cuts through the richness and awakens your palate.
• Chopped parsley adds a fresh, green note and beautiful color contrast to the golden rice.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 258 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg