Name: Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped; ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

If there’s one easy side dish that instantly brings the fresh, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean to your table, it’s this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes). With delicate grains of fluffy rice kissed by zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, every bite is infused with brightness and comfort. Whether you’re serving this alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoying it as a simple lunch, you’ll find it transforms ordinary meals into something memorable. Let’s journey to Greece from your own kitchen!

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines with an all-star lineup of simple ingredients, each playing a key role in building a symphony of flavor and texture. Let’s take a moment to appreciate how a few pantry staples can come together to create something truly special!

Rice: Long-grain white or basmati rice stays fluffy and absorbs all the flavorful liquid while keeping the grains separate.
Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil lays the foundation for classic Mediterranean flavor—don’t skip it!
Onion: Diced small, onion adds gentle sweetness and depth as it softens in the olive oil.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the rice with unmistakable aromatic richness.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Broth replaces water to provide extra savory dimension—choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the star, brightening up every bite with tang and freshness.
Lemon Zest: Zest offers concentrated lemon fragrance—don’t skip this step for that unforgettable citrusy pop.
Fresh Parsley or Dill: Chopped herbs finish the dish with color and a clean, vibrant taste.
Salt: Helps all the flavors shine through; adjust as needed for your palate.
Black Pepper: Just a pinch adds subtle warmth and depth.

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes)

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice well under cold water until the water runs clear. This simple step washes away excess starch, which is the secret to rice that’s fluffy rather than sticky. Trust me, this minute of effort makes a world of difference in texture!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat your olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté, stirring frequently, until it starts to turn translucent and soft. Once the onion is ready, add the minced garlic. The kitchen will instantly smell heavenly, signaling you’re building rich flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Pour in the rinsed, drained rice and give everything a good stir. Let it toast in the fragrant oil for a minute or two—this helps the rice absorb the aromatics and develop a gentle, nutty background note that lifts the whole dish.

Step 4: Add Broth, Lemon, and Zest

Gently pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add freshly squeezed lemon juice plus the all-important lemon zest. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly moistened and flecked with bits of zest.

Step 5: Simmer the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately turn the heat down low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Try not to peek—trapping the steam is key to getting ultra-tender rice that soaks up all the liquid and flavor.

Step 6: Fluff and Garnish

Once the rice is done, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for five minutes. Then, uncover, fluff with a fork, and stir in your fresh chopped herbs. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Your kitchen should smell like a Greek taverna!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes)

Garnishes

A generous sprinkling of extra fresh herbs—think parsley, dill, or even a bit of mint—brings not just eye-popping color but an inviting, grassy aroma to your final dish. A few thin lemon slices or zest curls on top make for a showstopper presentation and hint at the bright flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) pairs beautifully with so many mains. Try it with grilled chicken skewers, lamb chops, sautéed shrimp, or roasted veggies. It’s also fabulous alongside a big Greek salad or classic spanakopita for a full Mediterranean meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the basics—stuff this zesty rice inside roasted bell peppers or tomatoes for a colorful, crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Or, serve it as a base in grain bowls loaded with olives, cucumbers, feta, and grilled meats for a modern Greek feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply scoop any leftover Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) into an airtight container and pop it into the fridge. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this rice! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, pressing out excess air. Store in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or a drizzle of broth and gently warm the rice on the stove or in the microwave, covered, to restore its moisture and prevent it from drying out. A quick fluff with a fork will bring it right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white or basmati?

You can absolutely use brown rice for extra nutrition and a nutty undertone, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and liquid a bit. Expect the rice to take closer to 40-45 minutes, and add up to a half cup more broth as needed.

Is Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free broth, the entire dish is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings where guests might have special dietary needs.

Can I add extra veggies or proteins?

Definitely—stir in thawed peas, sautéed spinach, or chopped cooked chicken for a heartier spin. This recipe is infinitely flexible, so feel free to make it your own!

What’s the best rice for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice or basmati is ideal for a fluffy, separate grain texture that absorbs the lemony broth perfectly, but jasmine rice also works in a pinch. Just be sure to rinse whatever you use.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Always rinse your rice thoroughly and pay close attention to the simmer time—too much liquid or overcooking can make rice mushy. Letting it rest covered off the heat for five minutes at the end will also help lock in the perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you fall in love with this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) just as much as I have. It’s easy, vibrant, and packed with flavor—the kind of recipe that brightens any plate and brings a hint of Greece into every bite. Give it a try, and let your kitchen travel somewhere sunny tonight!