Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Lemon Rice is a zesty and aromatic side dish that pairs beautifully with Mediterranean mains like grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. Infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, this rice dish delivers a burst of bright, tangy flavor in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and makes for a refreshing alternative to plain white rice.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

long grain white riceolive oiloniongarlicchicken or vegetable brothfresh lemon juicelemon zesteither fresh dill or parsleybay leafsalt and pepper

directions

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the rice and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat it in the oil and aromatics.

Pour in the broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in chopped fresh dill or parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use basmati rice for a more aromatic result.

Add sautéed spinach or peas for a veggie boost.

Stir in crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess.

Top with toasted pine nuts for added texture.

Use lime instead of lemon for a different citrus note.

storage/reheating

Store leftover lemon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness.Do not freeze, as the texture may become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but cooking time will increase to about 40-45 minutes, and you may need more liquid.

Is Greek Lemon Rice vegan?

It can be—just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What dishes pair well with Greek Lemon Rice?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, kebabs, roasted vegetables, or Greek-style salads.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What herbs work best?

Fresh dill is traditional, but parsley or mint can also work well.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming sticky?

Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch and helps keep it fluffy.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure to use a larger pot and adjust the liquid accordingly.

Do I need to use a bay leaf?

It adds depth of flavor, but the recipe will still be tasty without it.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Absolutely—try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings Mediterranean sunshine to your plate. With its bright citrus flavor and aromatic herbs, it elevates any meal while remaining easy enough for weeknight dinners. Perfectly fluffy and refreshingly zesty, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.