Description
This Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf is a fragrant, zesty side dish that’s perfect alongside Mediterranean meals. Made with long grain rice cooked in chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, and herbs like parsley and dill, it delivers vibrant flavors and a light, fluffy texture. Quick to prepare and versatile, it can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Pilaf Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or butter)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped (white, brown, or yellow)
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 large lemon (1 tsp zest + 3 – 4 tbsp lemon juice)
- 3 tbsp finely chopped parsley
- 3 tbsp finely chopped dill (or substitute with parsley, oregano, basil, chives, or mint)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 1/2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan or small pot to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté garlic and onion: Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and start to sweeten, developing flavor for the pilaf.
- Add the rice: Stir in 1 1/2 cups of uncooked long grain white rice and continue stirring until the rice grains turn mostly translucent, ensuring an even toasting that enhances the texture.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in 1 1/4 cups chicken broth and 1 cup water, then cover with a lid. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low to gently cook the rice.
- Cook the rice: Let the rice cook, covered, for approximately 12 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Let rice rest: Remove the pot from the heat and keep it covered. Allow the rice to rest for 10 minutes so it can steam evenly and become fluffy.
- Add fresh flavors: Remove the lid and stir in the lemon zest, 3 to 4 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons each of finely chopped parsley and dill (or preferred herbs), plus salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve the pilaf warm or at room temperature as a bright, flavorful side dish perfect for Mediterranean or Greek-inspired meals.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh dill with other herbs like oregano, basil, chives, or mint based on preference.
- Using chicken broth adds extra flavor, but vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- Make sure to keep the lid on while resting the rice to ensure perfect fluffiness.
- This recipe yields about 5 to 6 servings, ideal for side dishes alongside proteins like chicken, fish, or lamb.
