Lemon Rice Pilaf

User Reviews

5

109 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    20 mins

  • Total Time

    30 mins

  • Servings

    5 -6

  • Calories

    216 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

Lemon Rice Pilaf

Lemon Rice Pilaf is a flavorful side dish featuring long grain rice cooked with garlic, onion, and chicken broth, then finished with fresh lemon zest, juice, and a mix of herbs like parsley and dill. The rice is tender with a bright citrus accent and herbal freshness, suitable for serving warm or at room temperature.

Description

Lemon Rice Pilaf begins by sautéing minced garlic and finely chopped onion in olive oil or butter until sweet and translucent. Long grain rice is added and stirred until partially translucent, then cooked with a combination of chicken broth and water. The covered rice simmers gently until liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender.

After resting off heat, the pilaf is stirred with freshly grated lemon zest and juice, along with finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley and dill. This adds a bright, fresh flavor and a fragrant aroma to the dish. Salt and black pepper are added to taste.

The pilaf has a fluffy texture and well-balanced flavors that enhance a range of main dishes. It is best suited to be served warm or at room temperature to fully enjoy its aromatic qualities.

Using long grain rice is preferred for ideal texture, though medium, short grain, basmati, or jasmine rice can also work with adjustments. Brown rice requires more water and longer cooking times. Avoid risotto or paella rice varieties for this recipe.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or butter
  • 1 garlic minced, clove
  • 1/2 onion , finely chopped (white, brown, yellow)
  • 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice , uncooked (Note 1)
  • 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 lemon 1 tsp zest + 3 - 4 tbsp lemon juice, large
  • 3 tbsp parsley finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp dill or sub with parsley, oregano, basil chives, mint, finely chopped
  • salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat oil over medium heat in large saucepan or small pot.
  2. Add garlic and onion. Cook for 5 minutes or until translucent and sweet.
  3. Add rice and stir until rice turns mostly translucent.
  4. Add broth and water. Place lid on, bring to simmer then turn heat down to low.
  5. Cook for 12 minutes or until water is evaporated.
  6. Remove from from stove and rest for 10 minutes (keep the lid on).
  7. Remove lid. stir through lemon zest, lemon juice, herbs and salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Lovey served warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Long grain white rice yields the best texture but medium, short grain, basmati, or jasmine rice may be substituted with adjusted cooking times.
  • Brown rice requires additional water and longer cooking according to package instructions.
  • Avoid using risotto or paella rice for this pilaf to maintain proper texture.
  • Nutrition per serving assumes 6 servings with about 3/4 cup packed rice each.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 153g Calories 216cal (11%) Carbohydrates 39.2g (13%) Protein 4.8g (10%) Fat 4.1g (6%) Saturated Fat 0.6g (3%) Sodium 361mg (15%) Potassium 174mg (4%) Fiber 1.1g (4%) Sugar 0.6g (1%) Vitamin A 250IU (5%) Vitamin C 5.8mg (6%) Calcium 50mg (5%) Iron 3.1mg (17%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 5-6

Amount Per Serving

Calories 216 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 153g
Calories 216cal 11%
Carbohydrates 39.2g 13%
Protein 4.8g 10%
Fat 4.1g 6%
Saturated Fat 0.6g 3%
Sodium 361mg 15%
Potassium 174mg 4%
Fiber 1.1g 4%
Sugar 0.6g 1%
Vitamin A 250IU 5%
Vitamin C 5.8mg 6%
Calcium 50mg 5%
Iron 3.1mg 17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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5

109 reviews
Excellent

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