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Family Loved Greek Lemon Rice Recipe: The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Zesty Pilaf

This Greek lemon rice recipe transforms ordinary rice into an extraordinary family favorite with vibrant citrus flavor and fluffy texture. Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a Mediterranean feast, this easy side dish comes together in under 30 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and zest and juice your lemons. Chop the fresh herbs and have all ingredients measured and ready.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent around the edges.
  4. Pour in the broth and lemon juice, then add the lemon zest, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  5. Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork and gently stir in the fresh dill and parsley. If using, add toasted nuts for extra crunch.
  6. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with additional lemon wedges and herbs, and serve warm.

Notes

Use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice for brightest flavor. Add fresh herbs after cooking to preserve vibrant color and fresh flavor. Long-grain white rice works best as it stays fluffy and separate. For very young children, reduce lemon juice slightly and chop herbs very finely.