Recipe - Greek Lemon Rice

If you're looking for a side dish that’s bursting with zesty citrus flavors and Mediterranean flair, Greek Lemon Rice is an excellent choice. This classic dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also quick and simple to prepare. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Greek Lemon Rice and provide an easy step-by-step guide to making it at home.

The Origins of Greek Lemon Rice

Greek cuisine is celebrated for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, and Greek Lemon Rice—known as "Rizi me Lemoni" in Greek—is a beloved staple. This fragrant dish is commonly served alongside a variety of Greek main courses, including grilled meats, seafood, and vegetable-based dishes.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of Greek Lemon Rice is its quick cooking time. In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare this delicious and refreshing side dish, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special gatherings where you want to impress your guests.

Ingredients

To prepare Greek Lemon Rice for about 4 servings, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup of long-grain white rice
2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

- Begin by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain well and set aside.

- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

- Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. This helps to lightly toast the rice grains, enhancing their flavor.

- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender.

- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.

- After resting, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and freshly chopped dill to the rice. Gently fold these ingredients into the rice, allowing the flavors to meld.

- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and discard the bay leaves.

- Serve your Greek Lemon Rice as a vibrant side dish or as a bed for grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.