Greek Lemon Rice
User Reviews
4.7
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
187 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
Mediterranean
Greek Lemon Rice
Description
Greek Lemon Rice combines rinsed long grain white rice sautéed briefly in butter with turmeric for color and subtle earthy flavor. Chicken broth and lemon juice are added along with salt, then the mixture simmers covered until the rice is tender and fluffy. Fluffing with a fork at the end helps separate grains and distributes flavors. Fresh herbs like dill can be stirred in to add herbal notes and freshness.
The lemon juice provides a bright acidity that balances the richness of butter and broth, while turmeric lends a warm golden hue and mild flavor without overpowering. This cooking method ensures the rice grains remain separate rather than sticky, focusing on a light texture.
This rice is an excellent accompaniment to chicken or fish dishes, adding citrusy character to a meal. Adding parsley, oregano, peas, diced tomatoes, or toasted pine nuts can vary texture and flavor further if desired.
To prepare the rice optimally, rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch. The finished rice can be stored for up to five days in the fridge but may become mealy after freezing. Butter type and salt can be adjusted based on personal preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice rinsed (see note)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ¼-⅓ cup lemon juice to taste, fresh squeezed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs optional (dill is my favorite!, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter.
- Stir in rinsed rice for 1 minute, then stir in turmeric.
- Stir in the broth, lemon juice, and salt and bring to a boil.
- Reduce to a high simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring once or twice throughout. Fluff with a fork, stir in fresh herbs if desired, and serve.
Notes
- Rinse long grain rice under cold water before cooking to remove surface starch and ensure fluffy, separate grains.
- Basmati rice can be used for a lighter, fluffier texture, though it changes the dish slightly from traditional Greek style.
- Store cooked rice in the refrigerator for up to five days; freezing is possible but may alter texture.
- Use unsalted butter and adjust added salt according to taste to control seasoning precisely.
- Add fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or oregano, or mix in peas, diced tomatoes, or toasted pine nuts to add flavor and texture variations.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 187 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 187kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 3mg | 1% |
| Sodium | 1028mg | 43% |
| Potassium | 122mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 19IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 32mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
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