Greek Lemon Rice Recipe​

With millions of views, this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is one of the most popular recipes on my website! Zesty and packed with flavor thanks to sautéed onions, garlic, Mediterranean herbs, and lots of lemon, this Greek Yellow Rice is sure to become a family favorite!

Greek, Mediterranean

SERVINGS: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS​

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 medium yellow onion (chopped, red onion will also work)
• 1 cup basmati rice (soaked and drained or thoroughly washed)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp organic lemon zest
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian/vegan version)
• 1/4 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1 pinch turmeric (optional but required if you want the bright yellow colour in the picture)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for serving)
• Extra lemon juice (optional for serving)

INSTRUCTIONS​

• Saute the onions and garlic. To a large saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onions and garlic and saute until soft and fragrant (4-5 minutes).
• Add the rice. Add the washed rice and lemon zest, saute until slightly toasted (about 1 minute) stirring frequently to keep the rice from sticking to the pan.
• Add the liquids and herbs. Pour in the broth, lemon juice, dill, parsley, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, and turmeric (optional). Mix and allow to come to a boil uncovered, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the liquids have evaporated and the rice is tender but not sticky (time may vary depending on the rice you’re using). Stir, then taste and adjust seasonings, if desired.
• Let sit. Remove the rice from heat and allow to sit covered for 10 minutes. Uncover and fluff up before serving. Optional: stir in the butter and/or top with a few extra drops of fresh lemon juice or crumbled feta cheese.

NOTES​

Note: If the liquids evaporate before the rice is done (this may happen depending on the rice you're using), feel free to add extra water. Do not overcook your rice, as it will continue to cook after you turn off the heat.

Storing Instructions: store any leftovers in an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. Do not allow the cooked lemon rice to sit at room temperature for too long (longer than an hour) for safety reasons.

Reheating Instructions: reheat on the stovetop until hot adding a splash of water or broth or in the microwave (60-90 seconds). Always make sure the rice is steaming hot before serving. Do not reheat more than once for safety reasons