Lemon Herb Rice is a light and refreshing side dish that can brighten up any meal. The combination of zesty lemon and fresh herbs gives this rice a delicious flavor that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables, this rice is sure to be a hit.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Lemon Herb Rice is a great way to add some zest to your meals without much effort. It takes just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time. Plus, it’s healthy and packed with fresh flavors. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or for special occasions when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
How to Make Lemon Herb Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil.
- Add the rice, olive oil or butter, and a pinch of salt.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Rice
Lemon Herb Rice goes well with many foods. You can serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a great base for a veggie stir-fry or a hearty salad. Drizzling a little olive oil or adding extra herbs before serving can enhance the flavor even more.
How to Store Lemon Herb Rice
If you have leftover Lemon Herb Rice, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3–4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tips to Make Lemon Herb Rice
- Make sure to rinse the rice well to remove excess starch, which will help keep the grains separate.
- You can mix in other herbs if you like, such as basil or cilantro, for different flavors.
- For a richer taste, try using chicken broth instead of water or vegetable broth.
Variation
For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding some chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the rice. You might also try incorporating some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Just keep in mind that you will need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
2. Is Lemon Herb Rice vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use olive oil instead of butter and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I freeze Lemon Herb Rice?
Yes, you can freeze the rice. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
