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Quick Zesty Greek Lemon Rice - The Perfect Vibrant Side Dish for Dinner

This quick Greek lemon rice brings Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table in under 20 minutes with bright citrus notes, fragrant herbs, and fluffy grains. It's the perfect vibrant side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
  2. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the grains with oil.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
  6. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork.
  7. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  8. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.

Notes

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightest flavor. Don't skip rinsing the rice for fluffy grains. Let rice rest after cooking to absorb moisture evenly. Adjust lemon intensity to taste. Add fresh herbs and lemon juice just before serving for best texture and flavor.