Greek Lemon Rice: A Zesty and Flavorful Side Dish

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This vibrant and aromatic Greek Lemon Rice recipe will transport your taste buds to Greece’s sunny shores. This simple but flavorful side dish, packed with zesty lemon flavor and fragrant herbs, goes well with a variety of main courses. Whether served with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables, or on its own as a light and satisfying meal, Greek Lemon Rice will brighten up any mealtime. Join me as we go through the steps to make this delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice:

  1. Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffy rice.

2. Cook the Rice:

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the saucepan with a lid.
  3. Simmer the rice for 15-20 minutes, or until it is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

3. Prepare the Lemon Mixture:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme.

4. Combine Rice and Lemon Mixture:

  1. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
  2. Pour the lemon mixture over the cooked rice and gently toss until the rice is evenly coated.

5. Season and Garnish:

  1. Season the Greek Lemon Rice with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
  2. Garnish the rice with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.

6. Serve Warm:

  1. Transfer the Greek Lemon Rice to a serving dish and serve it warm as a flavorful side dish or accompaniment to your favorite Greek-inspired main course.

Tips:

  • For extra flavor, you can sauté the minced garlic in olive oil before adding it to the lemon mixture.
  • Feel free to customize the herbs in this recipe based on your preferences. Fresh herbs like dill or mint would also work well.
  • If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to taste.

Greek Lemon Rice is a zesty and flavorful side dish that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to any meal. With its vibrant lemon flavor, fragrant herbs, and fluffy texture, it’s sure to become a dinnertime favorite. Greek Lemon Rice is a versatile and delicious option for any occasion, whether served with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables or as a light and satisfying meal on its own. So, why not try this simple yet delicious recipe? Your tastebuds will thank you!

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