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Quick Zesty Greek Lemon Rice: The Instant Side Dish Your Dinner Needs

This quick Greek lemon rice transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, tangy side dish in just 20 minutes. Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian feast, it brings restaurant-quality Mediterranean flavor to your weeknight table.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Juice of 2 large lemons
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Lemon zest from 1 lemon

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the rice to the pan and stir constantly for 2 minutes until the grains become slightly translucent around the edges. This toasting step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice. Add dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
  4. Once the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender, remove from heat. Let it stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in fresh parsley, dill, and lemon zest.
  5. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Serve warm as the perfect zesty side to your main course.

Notes

Use long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine for best texture. Add lemon juice with broth rather than at end to mellow acidity. Use fresh herbs for final addition. Vegetable broth adds depth but chicken broth or water can be substituted.