Name: Easy Greek Lemon Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

Easy Greek Lemon Rice is a bright and flavorful side dish that brings a zesty Mediterranean touch to your meal. With simple ingredients like lemon, oregano, and basmati rice, it’s both refreshing and comforting. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or vegetables, this recipe is quick and satisfying.

A bowl filled with cooked yellow rice mixed with small bits of green herbs and red pepper pieces, topped with two thin lemon slices placed on the center. The rice looks fluffy with distinct grains visible, and the herbs are scattered evenly throughout for color contrast. The bowl is white with dark speckles and a thin dark rim, sitting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch and prevent gumminess.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2–3 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
Step 3: Stir in the rinsed rice and toast it for about 2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
Step 4: Add the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pot and bring to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 7: Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff gently with a fork.
Step 8: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, colorful finish.

Tips & Variations

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Toast pine nuts or slivered almonds and sprinkle on top for added crunch and texture.
Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or chickpeas to turn this into a complete meal.
Fresh oregano can be substituted for dried if available, adding a brighter herbal note.

Storage

Store leftover Greek lemon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and warm gently in the microwave or on the stove to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

A bowl filled with fluffy yellow rice mixed with small green herb pieces and tiny red bits, topped with two lemon slices placed near the center. The rice looks soft and moist with a slightly oily shine, giving it a rich texture. The bowl is white with small dark specks and a dark rim. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, but cooking times and liquid amounts may vary. Basmati rice works best for its fluffy texture and aroma, making it ideal for this recipe.

How do I make the rice more lemony?

For a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon juice after cooking or garnish with thin lemon slices. Using fresh lemon zest also enhances the citrus aroma.