Description
If you’re looking for a quick side dish that packs a punch of flavor, Irresistibly Delicious Greek Rice is your answer. With fluffy grains infused with lemon, garlic, and olive oil, this easy recipe elevates any meal with its fresh Mediterranean flair. It’s perfect for quick dinners, healthy snacks, or as part of your weekly meal prep. Ideal for pairing with grilled meats, seafood, or veggies, this dish also shines on its own. Whether you’re after new dinner ideas, quick lunch sides, or simple food ideas to impress, this easy recipe fits the bill every time.
Ingredients
1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains evenly. Toast for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in broth, add lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and keep covered for 5-10 minutes to let the rice steam and finish cooking.
8. Fluff with a fork, stir in chopped parsley, and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
Rinsing the rice is essential for fluffy texture—don’t skip it.
Letting the rice rest after cooking helps avoid sogginess.
Add feta or cooked chickpeas for extra protein or flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: quick side dish, Greek rice, easy dinner, lemon rice, healthy rice recipe