Description
Sunlight-kissed Greek lemon rice brings Mediterranean zest to your dinner table, dancing with tangy brightness and herbal whispers. Crumbled feta and fresh dill elevate this simple side dish, promising a quick escape to coastal Greece with each comforting spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 medium yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons organic lemon zest
- 1/4 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pinch turmeric
- Salt and pepper
Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for serving)
- Extra lemon juice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it becomes glossy. Add chopped onions and garlic, stirring consistently for 4-5 minutes until they become soft and aromatic, maintaining a translucent appearance without browning.
- Incorporate washed rice and lemon zest into the pan, stirring for approximately one minute to enhance the rice’s nutty undertones and prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Pour broth, lemon juice, fresh herbs, cumin, oregano, and turmeric into the mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then stir thoroughly. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until liquid is completely absorbed.
- Remove from heat and allow the rice to rest, covered, for 10 minutes. This steaming process ensures even cooking without compromising texture. Uncover and delicately separate rice grains using a fork. Optional: Incorporate a tablespoon of butter for enhanced richness and finish with an additional lemon juice squeeze for brightness.
Notes
- Toasting rice briefly before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and prevents clumping, creating a more complex taste profile.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for brighter, more vibrant citrus notes that elevate the entire dish’s brightness.
- Opt for long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine for the best texture and fluffiness, ensuring each grain remains distinct and tender.
- Consider adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to transform this side dish into a complete, nutritious meal with minimal extra effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg