Go Back
serving plate of greek lemon rice

Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

This Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is bright, fragrant, and effortlessly delicious, with fluffy rice infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and warm Mediterranean herbs. The citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with the subtle richness of olive oil, creating a side dish that feels both refreshing and comforting. It’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, souvlaki, or roasted veggies. A simple yet flavorful staple that instantly elevates any meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine greek, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 ¾ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 large lemon juice and zest
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped dill or parsley

Instructions  

  • Rinse the rice under cool water for a few seconds. This removes extra starch.
  • Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft but not browned.
  • Add the rice. Stir for one minute so each grain gets coated with oil.
  • Add the broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir once.
  • Bring the pot to a slow boil.
  • Reduce heat to low. Cover the pot.
  • Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the liquid.
  • Turn off the heat. Add lemon zest and herbs.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Video

Notes

📝 Notes

  • Rinse rice until water runs clear for fluffier grains.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Sauté rice briefly in butter or olive oil before adding broth toasting it lightly.
  • Substitute vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
  • Finish with chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon for freshness.
  • Cover and let rest 5–10 minutes after cooking for perfect texture.
  • Store cooled leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days in an airtight container.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to revive fluffiness.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 230 kcal;
Carbohydrates: 44 g;
Fiber: 1.5 g;
Sugars: 1.5 g;
Protein: 4 g;
Fat: 6 g;
Saturated Fat: 3 g;
Cholesterol: 10 mg;
Sodium: 380 mg;
Potassium: 150 mg;
Calcium: 20 mg;
Iron: 1.0 mg.
Keyword Greek Lemon Rice Recipe