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Flavorful Greek Lemon Rice

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Flavorful Greek Lemon Rice: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe made with garlic, olive oil, oregano, and fresh lemon juice for a bright Mediterranean side dish. Light, fluffy, and perfect with chicken, seafood, or grilled vegetables.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 medium lemon (juiced and zested)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Rinse the Rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps keep the rice fluffy.

Prepare the Broth: In a saucepan, heat the vegetable or chicken broth until it begins to gently simmer.

Sauté the Garlic: In a separate large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

Add the Rice: Stir the rinsed rice into the pot and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently so the grains are coated with oil.

Combine Ingredients: Add the hot broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.

Fluff and Garnish: Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Fresh lemon zest adds extra brightness and aroma to the rice.

For richer flavor, cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water.

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, lamb, or roasted vegetables.

Add crumbled feta cheese for an extra Mediterranean touch.