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Ultimate Lemon Rice Recipe - Step by Step Guide for Perfect Zesty Side Dish

This Greek-inspired lemon rice is a bright, zesty side dish that combines fluffy rice with fresh lemon juice and herbs. It's versatile, easy to make, and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a refreshing summer meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine work beautifully)
  • 3 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (for that beautiful golden color)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. Zest and juice lemons, chop onion and garlic, and measure out all spices.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add rinsed rice to pan and stir to coat with oil and aromatics. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until rice grains become slightly translucent around edges.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth or water, then add lemon juice, lemon zest, turmeric, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with tight-fitting lid.
  5. Simmer rice for 18-20 minutes without lifting lid. Check if liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender. Cook another 2-3 minutes if needed.
  6. Remove pan from heat and let sit covered for 5-10 minutes. Fluff with fork and stir in fresh parsley.
  7. Transfer to serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or almonds if using. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use long-grain rice for best results, fresh lemon juice for brightest flavor, don't skip the resting time after cooking, and adjust lemon to taste after cooking. Lemon rice improves in flavor when made ahead and served at room temperature.