Description
This Greek lemon rice is light, fragrant, and packed with zesty citrus flavor. It works beautifully as a side to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a simple vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (roughly 2–3 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Warm the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until it softens and turns slightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown, or it will taste bitter.
- Toast the rice: Add the rice to the pan and stir well so each grain is coated in the olive oil and aromatic mixture. Toasting the rice lightly before adding liquid enhances its texture and develops a subtle nutty flavor.
- Add liquid and seasoning: Pour in the broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Sprinkle in the oregano, salt, and pepper, then stir briefly to combine.
- Simmer gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it cook undisturbed for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender. Do not lift the lid while cooking, as the steam is key to perfectly cooked rice.
- Finish and fluff: Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding extra lemon juice or salt to your preference. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving.
Notes
- Don’t overdo the lemon juice: Too much can make the rice watery or mushy. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust at the end if needed.
- Always toast the rice: This step adds flavor and helps prevent clumping.
- Leave it alone while cooking: Avoid stirring or lifting the lid until cooking is complete. Steam is what keeps the grains fluffy.