Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

This Greek Lemon Rice Recipe is sunshine in a bowl—a bright, savory rice pilaf with buttery orzo, fresh herbs, and zippy lemon that tastes like a summer day in the Mediterranean. If you love Greek flavors and dreamy, fluffy rice, this will quickly become your go-to recipe for side dishes, meal prepping, or just whenever you crave something comforting yet vibrant!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple doesn’t mean boring! Each ingredient in this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe plays a starring role, contributing either to the lush texture, layers of fresh flavor, or that irresistible golden color. Here’s why you’ll want each and every one in your kitchen for rice night.

• Long grain rice (2 cups): This keeps your pilaf fluffy and light—short-grain rice gets way too sticky for this style.
• Early Harvest Greek extra virgin olive oil: The earthy, fruity olive oil adds depth and helps toast the orzo for a subtle nutty flavor.
• Yellow onion (1 cup, chopped): Gently sautéed, it melts right in and infuses gentle sweetness.
• Garlic clove, minced: Just one, but its aroma rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Orzo pasta (½ cup): Adds buttery chew and visual appeal—these golden grains are a Greek classic!
• Lemons (juice of 2, plus zest of 1): Bright, tangy, and aromatic, with the zest packing extra citrusy punch.
• Low sodium broth (2 cups): Choose chicken or vegetable—either one gives delicate flavor while letting the lemon shine.
• Pinch of salt: Essential for bringing everything together (be sure to taste as broths vary in saltiness).
• Chopped fresh parsley (large handful): A shower of green at the end that tastes as good as it looks.
• Dill weed (1 tsp): Dried dill brings that distinctive “Greek taverna” flavor that sets this rice apart.

Variations

This Greek Lemon Rice Recipe adapts beautifully to all sorts of preferences, ingredients, and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it—the base is sturdy, and the flavors are endlessly customizable. Here are some of my favorite twists:

• Gluten Free Version: Simply skip the orzo for a pilaf that’s just as delicious, but 100% gluten free.
• Vegan & Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken; the flavors stay bright and fresh!
• Brown Rice Swap: You can use brown rice for a nutty, wholesome variation. Just increase the broth and soak time—check your package for exact instructions.
• Extra Citrus: Double the lemon zest or add a splash of white wine for an even brighter bite.
• Rice Cooker Shortcut: In a pinch, toss ingredients in your rice cooker. Replace fresh onion and garlic with powders for easy prep—just stir in herbs and zest at the end!

How to Make Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

Step 1: Wash and Soak the Rice

Don’t skip this step! Rinse your long grain rice under plenty of cold water until the water runs mostly clear, then soak it for 15–20 minutes. This removes excess starch so your rice turns out fluffy—not sticky. Soaking also helps the grains cook evenly, shortening the simmer time and keeping the texture just right.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

In a large saucepan, heat your best Greek olive oil over medium until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes), then toss in the garlic and orzo. Cook, stirring gently, until the orzo turns lightly golden and smells nutty—this step creates that classic, toasty pilaf flavor.

Step 3: Toast and Simmer

Stir the well-drained rice into the pot, letting it mingle with the oil, onions, and orzo. Pour in your freshly squeezed lemon juice and broth, add a pinch of salt, and give everything a quick mix. Bring to a lively boil, then immediately lower the heat and cover the pan. Let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is perfectly tender.

Step 4: Rest, Fluff, and Finish

Once cooked, take the pan off the heat, but leave it covered and undisturbed for another 10 minutes. This “steaming” step locks in moisture, so your rice finishes cooking gently and stays fluffy. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the chopped parsley, dill weed, and lemon zest. Add extra zest or fresh lemon slices for a beautiful finish!

How to Serve Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

Garnishes

For the ultimate finish, scatter extra chopped parsley or dill over the top, and tuck in a few fresh lemon slices. Want to really impress? A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts adds rich contrast and extra layers of flavor that make your Greek Lemon Rice Recipe pop!

Side Dishes

This rice loves to share the table with Greek favorites like chicken souvlaki, beef kabobs, Greek baked cod, or even roasted veggies like Briam. I also adore pairing it with shrimp skewers, lamb chops, or a simple Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve mounded on a large platter dotted with lemon slices and herbs for family-style meals, or scoop the rice into bowls for a cozy lunch. I love using it as a vibrant base for grilled proteins or stuffing it into roasted peppers for an unexpected twist. Make mini rice “cakes” with a ramekin for elegant dinner party plating!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the rice cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll keep fresh and bright for about 3–4 days. The lemony flavor will mellow slightly but remains delicious.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your Greek Lemon Rice Recipe, scoop portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out as much air as possible and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon of water over the rice and warm in the microwave, covered, in 30-second bursts, or gently on the stovetop. Fluff with a fork, and add fresh parsley or an extra squeeze of lemon to revive the flavors!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If a taste of the Mediterranean is calling your name, I hope you’ll give this Greek Lemon Rice Recipe a try. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and filled with comfort—perfect for sharing with friends and family, or as a vibrant treat for yourself. Can’t wait to hear how you make it your own!

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