This Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen. Known as “Spanakorizo” in Greek cuisine, this aromatic side dish combines fluffy rice with bright lemon and fresh herbs for a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) delivers restaurant-quality results in just over half an hour. The combination of tangy lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked rice creates a side dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re serving grilled chicken, lamb, or enjoying it as a light vegetarian meal, this Greek lemon rice adapts beautifully to any occasion.
The recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it an accessible weeknight dinner solution. The bright citrus notes perfectly balance the savory broth, while fresh herbs add a pop of color and Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients (5 minutes) Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and zest your lemon. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics (5 minutes) Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice (3 minutes) Add the rinsed rice to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast. This step adds depth of flavor and helps achieve perfectly separated grains.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Seasonings (2 minutes) Pour in the broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Stir once to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook (18 minutes) Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid, allowing the rice to absorb all the flavorful liquid.
Step 6: Rest and Fluff (5 minutes) Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and prevents it from becoming sticky.
Step 7: Finish and Serve (2 minutes) Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley or dill just before serving.
Helpful Tips
Rice Selection: Long-grain white rice or basmati rice works best for this Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes). These varieties maintain their shape and don’t become mushy during cooking.
Fresh vs. Bottled Lemon Juice: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Bottled lemon juice can taste artificial and won’t provide the same vibrant taste.
Herb Choices: While parsley is traditional, fresh dill adds an authentic Greek flavor. You can also use a combination of both herbs for more complexity.
Broth Quality: Use high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth will elevate this dish significantly.
Don’t Peek: Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is cooking. This releases steam and can result in unevenly cooked rice.
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 as a side dish
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Diet: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth), Gluten-Free
Notes
This Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The recipe doubles well for larger gatherings.
For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil. Some Greek families also add a pinch of oregano for additional Mediterranean flavor.
The rice should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. If your rice seems too dry, add a splash more broth. If it’s too wet, continue cooking uncovered for a few more minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to 45-50 minutes and add an extra ½ cup of broth, as brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking? Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking and avoid stirring once you’ve added the liquid. The toasting step also helps create separate grains.
Can I make this ahead of time? This Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) is best served fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore moisture.
What can I serve with Greek lemon rice? This versatile side pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, lamb souvlaki, roasted vegetables, or Greek-style fish. It also works as a base for grain bowls.
Can I freeze leftover rice? Yes, this rice freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with a little added broth.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a little added liquid.
For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
Related Recipes
Expand your Mediterranean cooking repertoire with these delicious recipes from Run of Life:
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad – A fresh, protein-packed side dish
- Greek-Style Roasted Vegetables – Perfect accompaniment to this lemon rice
- Homemade Tzatziki Sauce – Classic Greek condiment
- Easy Greek Chicken Marinade – Pairs perfectly with this rice
- Traditional Greek Salad – Complete your Mediterranean meal
Conclusion
This Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The bright, zesty taste of lemon combined with aromatic herbs transforms ordinary rice into a show-stopping side dish that will transport you straight to a Greek taverna.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish or planning a Mediterranean-themed dinner party, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time. The 35-minute timeline makes it perfect for busy schedules, while the authentic flavors satisfy your craving for something special.
Try this Ultimate Greek Lemon Rice Recipe (35-Minutes) tonight and discover why it’s become a favorite in kitchens around the world. Don’t forget to share your results and let us know how this Mediterranean gem enhanced your dinner table!