Greek Lemon Rice

This Greek Lemon Rice sounds bright, flavorful, and perfect as a side dish or even a light main course! The combination of lemon, fresh herbs, and aromatic garlic makes it a refreshing addition to any meal. Here’s how to make it:

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine work well)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh dill (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice:
   • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the Rice:
   • Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it in the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add Lemon and Herbs:
   • Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. Mix well to combine.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   • Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm as a side dish or base for grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.

Tips:

• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bay leaf while cooking the rice for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Stir in sautéed spinach, peas, or diced tomatoes for a more substantial dish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
• Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

This Greek Lemon Rice is zesty, herby, and full of Mediterranean flavors. Let me know if you try it or need more recipe ideas! 😊🍋🍚