Greek Lemon Rice: The Zesty, Fluffy Side That Goes with Everything

Simple yet bold, light but satisfying—Greek Lemon Rice is a Mediterranean staple that elevates any meal. With its citrusy zing, garlic aroma, and herby finish, this side dish is a vibrant partner to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, seafood, or classic Greek favorites like souvlaki and spanakopita.

It’s the kind of dish that proves rice doesn’t have to be boring. Just a few fresh ingredients and a squeeze of lemon can transform basic white rice into a crave-worthy companion you’ll want to serve every week.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Bright, fresh, and flavorful
✔️ Pairs beautifully with almost anything
✔️ Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
✔️ Uses pantry staples + fresh lemon & herbs
✔️ Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly

This rice is fluffy, tangy, savory, and slightly garlicky—all in one bite.

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What Is Greek Lemon Rice?

Greek Lemon Rice is a traditional side dish made from long-grain white rice infused with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley. It’s often served as part of a mezze platter or alongside dishes like:

• Greek grilled chicken
• Lamb kebabs
• Baked fish
• Stuffed grape leaves
• Falafel or roasted chickpeas

Some versions also include onion or broth for extra depth, but this version stays light and lemon-forward.

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Real & Reliable Greek Lemon Rice Recipe

🍋 Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds until water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.

🍚 Tip: Soaking the rice for 10–15 minutes before cooking results in even fluffier grains.

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Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown it!).

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Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the garlic oil. Stir for 1–2 minutes to toast slightly. Add chicken or veggie broth, salt, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

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Step 4: Add Lemon Juice & Herbs

Turn off the heat. Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley.

Taste and adjust salt or lemon as needed.

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Step 5: Serve

Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges. This rice is perfect fresh but also tastes amazing cold in a Mediterranean grain bowl or salad.

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Variations to Try

🌿 Add fresh dill or mint for a fragrant twist
🧅 Include finely chopped onion sautéed with garlic for extra savoriness
🧈 Finish with a pat of butter for richness
🌾 Use brown rice—just increase cooking time and liquid accordingly
🍅 Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for texture and flavor
🧀 Sprinkle with feta before serving for a tangy kick

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What to Serve With Greek Lemon Rice

This versatile side pairs beautifully with:

🍢 Chicken souvlaki or gyro meat
🥗 Greek salad or cucumber salad
🐟 Grilled salmon or baked cod
🫓 Toasted pita bread and hummus
🥬 Spanakopita or baked eggplant
🧆 Falafel or chickpea patties

Or make a Greek-style grain bowl: base of lemon rice + chopped cucumbers, olives, tomatoes, chickpeas, and tzatziki.

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Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

✅ Make-Ahead: Cook rice and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Warm gently with a splash of broth or water.

✅ Freeze: Freeze cooled rice in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat in microwave or stovetop.

✅ Reheat: Add a few tablespoons of water, cover loosely, and microwave until hot.

🥄 Great for meal prep—portion into containers with grilled chicken or veggies.

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FAQs

Can I use lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
Yes, but fresh lemon juice and zest offer brighter flavor. Use bottled only in a pinch.

What kind of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine is ideal for fluffy, separate grains.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth.

Why does my rice come out sticky?
Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly and avoid over-stirring while cooking.

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Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg

Based on 1 of 4 servings using vegetable broth and basmati rice

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Final Thoughts

Simple, satisfying, and beautifully zesty—Greek Lemon Rice brings sunshine to your plate with just a handful of fresh ingredients. It’s the kind of side dish that quietly steals the show and elevates any meal with its citrus-kissed aroma and fresh herbs.

Whether served with grilled fish, a roast chicken dinner, or as the base of a Mediterranean bowl, this lemon rice is the side you’ll find yourself making again and again.

It’s easy. It’s bright. It’s authentically Greek-inspired comfort.

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