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Easy Greek Lemon Rice Dinner

Easy Greek Lemon Rice: Your New Favorite Dinner Side

Easy Greek Lemon Rice is a quick, fluffy, and flavorful side dish that perfectly complements various meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup long-grain rice Basmati or jasmine works best
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth Substitute water for a lighter option
For the Sauté
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Good-quality extra-virgin for optimum taste
  • 1 medium onion Finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh minced
For Flavoring
  • 1 lemon zest Infuses rice with fragrant citrus note
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice About 2 tablespoons for refreshing zing
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Enhances Mediterranean flavor
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
For Garnish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley Optional garnish

Equipment

  • medium pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water until it runs clear, then drain it well.
  2. In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute.
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice, toasting for about 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in zest and juice of 1 lemon.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, then serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Rinsing the rice is crucial for achieving fluffy texture. Monitor the heat to avoid burning the rice while simmering.

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