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Tangy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

Tangy Greek Lemon Rice


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4.7 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Creamy Greek lemon rice delivers Mediterranean comfort with tangy citrus notes. Zesty herbs and buttery texture invite diners to savor classic Greek culinary traditions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) long grain white rice
  • 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • ½ medium onion, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Greek seasoning
  • 2 tbsps minced parsley
  • 1 tsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan, adding rice, onions, and garlic. Toast until rice edges turn golden and onions become translucent, releasing a rich, appetizing aroma.
  2. Liquid Infusion: Pour chicken broth and Greek seasoning into the pan, stirring thoroughly to blend flavors and ensure even distribution of ingredients.
  3. Cooking Process: Bring liquid to a vigorous boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover with a tight lid and allow rice to cook undisturbed for 15-20 minutes, developing a tender, fluffy texture.
  4. Resting Stage: Remove pan from heat, keeping lid sealed, and let rice rest for an additional 10 minutes to complete the steaming and absorption process.
  5. Citrus Brightening: Uncover the pan and fluff rice with a fork. Grate lemon zest directly onto the rice, then halve and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, infusing it with bright, tangy notes.
  6. Herb Finale: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley throughout the rice, gently folding to incorporate the vibrant green herb and add a final layer of freshness.
  7. Serving: Transfer the aromatic rice to a serving dish, presenting it immediately while steaming hot to capture the full essence of the Greek-inspired side dish.

Notes

  • Boost Rice Flavor: Toast rice in oil before adding liquid to enhance nutty, rich undertones and prevent clumping.
  • Control Moisture Precision: Use exact liquid measurements and resist stirring during cooking to achieve perfect fluffy texture.
  • Zest Before Juicing: Grate lemon zest first, then squeeze juice to maximize citrus essence and prevent losing aromatic oils.
  • Herb Freshness Tip: Add parsley just before serving to maintain vibrant green color and preserve delicate herb flavors.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg