Greek Rice Pilaf
User Reviews
5
Greek Rice Pilaf
Description
Greek Rice Pilaf starts by softening minced onion in olive oil to build a savory base. Long-grain rice is added and toasted until lightly browned, enriching its flavor and texture. Garlic and lemon zest contribute fresh aromatics, while lemon juice, chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and salt provide depth and moisture as the rice cooks through absorption.
The finished pilaf is fluffy with grains separated, highlighted by a bright lemon flavor and a gentle onion and garlic undertone. It offers a versatile accompaniment especially suitable with Mediterranean dishes or roasted meats.
Using fragrant white rice types like basmati or jasmine enhances aroma, while opting for brown rice requires longer cooking time. The pilaf stores well refrigerated for up to four days and freezes satisfactorily for about two months when portioned. Reheating is simple with microwave or stovetop methods.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup onion minced (about 1/2 medium)
- 1 cup white rice long-grain, jasmine, or basmati (see note 1)
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon see note 2, zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice from 1 lemon
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in rice and cook, stirring frequently, until rice is lightly browned, about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and lemon zest until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add lemon juice, broth, bay leaf, and salt, and bring to boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and cook until rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed, about 15 to 17 minutes. Remove bay leaf and fluff with a fork.
Notes
- Use long-grain rice such as basmati or jasmine for ideal texture and aroma; avoid short-grain rice that can be sticky.
- For a brown rice version, adjust cooking time according to rice type instructions.
- Prepare lemon zest before juicing to retain zest freshness and flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze portions for up to two months.
- Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge or defrost in the microwave before reheating.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings (1-cup each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 256 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1cup | |
| Calories | 256kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 42g | 14% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 19mg | 6% |
| Sodium | 510mg | 21% |
| Potassium | 159mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 26mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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