Greek Lemon Rice

Greek Lemon Rice is a zesty and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or Greek-inspired meals. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, herbs, and the subtle nuttiness of perfectly cooked rice, this dish is easy to prepare and adds a vibrant touch to any table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick, delicious accompaniment, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (185g) long-grain rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Directions

1. Prepare the Rice:
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Cook the Rice:
   Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat it in the oil. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer to Perfection:
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff and Serve:
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes. Stir in the parsley and oregano, fluffing the rice with a fork. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

• Rice Options: Substitute long-grain rice with basmati or jasmine rice for a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• Extra Zest: For an even brighter flavor, add a few lemon slices during cooking and remove them before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Greek Lemon Rice is a fresh, versatile side that’s simple to make yet delivers incredible flavor. Its citrusy kick and herbaceous notes are sure to become a favorite addition to your meal rotation!