Bright, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious, Greek Lemon Rice is a must-try side dish that will elevate any meal. With its zesty lemon flavor and fluffy texture, this dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for a variety of occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Bursting with vibrant flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Quick and simple prep time, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Versatile and pairs well with a wide range of main dishes.
Ingredient Notes:
- Long grain white rice: Rinsed to remove excess starch for a light and fluffy texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and a creamy mouthfeel.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor.
- Fresh squeezed lemon juice: Provides a refreshing citrusy kick.
- Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Turmeric: Adds a hint of warmth and color.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Dill is recommended for a fresh and herby finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add rice and sauté until lightly toasted.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, salt, and turmeric.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until rice is cooked through.
- Stir in fresh herbs before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the tartness of the lemon.
- Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to ensure a light and airy texture.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve Greek Lemon Rice alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as a side to fish dishes. Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint lemonade.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store, allow the rice to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. - Can I freeze Greek Lemon Rice?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. - What herbs can I use besides dill?
Parsley, mint, or cilantro would also work well in this dish.
Conclusion:
With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, Greek Lemon Rice is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Give it a try and let the zesty goodness speak for itself! Enjoy and share your feedback with us.
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Greek Lemon Rice
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side-dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Lemon Rice recipe combines fluffy white rice with a tangy lemon flavor and aromatic turmeric, creating a refreshing and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or seafood.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain white rice – rinsed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4–1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice – to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs (dill is my favorite!)
Instructions
- Cook Rice: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add rice and cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, salt, and turmeric. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
- Fluff and Serve: Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in fresh herbs if using. Serve hot as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
- Feel free to add more fresh herbs like parsley or mint for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg