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Easy Greek Lemon Rice

Easy Greek Lemon Rice with Fresh Herbs to Brighten Your Meal

Elevate your meal with this Easy Greek Lemon Rice, a zesty, gluten-free side dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice Rinsed thoroughly
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Added at the end
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter Can substitute with olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Enhances flavor
For Seasoning
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Infuses aromatic depth
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric Omit for classic flavor
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Use white pepper for milder touch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Finely grated
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Remove before serving
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill or parsley Brightens the dish

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • fine mesh strainer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Greek Lemon Rice
  1. Rinse the rice under cool water in a fine mesh strainer until water runs clear. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the drained rice to the pot, stirring well. Sprinkle in ground turmeric and black pepper, then toast for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in warm chicken broth, add kosher salt, lemon zest, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, cover tightly and reduce heat to low.
  5. Simmer for 15-17 minutes, then remove from heat and let it rest covered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  6. Remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Mix in lemon juice and chopped herbs.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 360mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Fresh herbs and lemon juice should be added at the end to preserve their flavors.

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