Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe is a delightful and fragrant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright flavors and simple preparation, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to customize, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or a special gathering.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 220
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 41 g
Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 320 mg
Why Make Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe
This Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe is packed with flavor and boasts numerous health benefits. Lemon and dill are known for their refreshing properties and can aid in digestion, making this rice not only delicious but also nutritious. The versatility of this dish allows it to pair beautifully with various proteins, whether grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables, making it an ideal addition to any meal.
How to Make Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 brown onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp freshly minced garlic
- 2 cups (400 g) basmati rice, washed and drained
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups (500 ml) chicken or vegetable stock (see note 1 for gluten-free)
- ½ tsp sea salt flakes
- 2 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the finely diced onion and freshly minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the rice. Stir the washed and drained basmati rice into the saucepan with the aromatics. Immediately add the lemon juice, chicken or vegetable stock, and sea salt. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and cook for 12–14 minutes until small pits appear on the surface of the rice and all the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow it to stand, still covered, for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy. Uncover the rice and fluff it gently with a fork. Stir through the lemon zest, chopped parsley, and fresh dill for a burst of vibrant flavor. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for squeezing.
How to Serve Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe
This Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or lamb for a Mediterranean feast. Additionally, it can be served alongside roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian meal. You can also complement it with a fresh Greek salad or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for added flavor.
How to Store Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe
To store any leftovers, let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave or heat it gently on the stovetop. For longer storage, you can freeze the rice in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Expert Tips for Cooking Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe
- Always rinse basmati rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
- For an extra depth of flavor, use homemade chicken or vegetable stock.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for additional nutrition.
- Customize the herbs to your taste; thyme or oregano also work beautifully with this recipe.
Delicious Variations of Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe
- Spicy Lemon Dill Rice: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the rice while cooking for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Lemon Rice: Mix in fresh thyme or basil along with the dill for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Rice: Use lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a refreshing twist.
Greek Lemon Dill Rice Recipe is a simple and delicious dish that encourages you to explore its vibrant flavors. With its ease of preparation and adaptability, it’s a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. Try it out today, and watch it become a staple on your table!
Greek Lemon Dill Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 piece brown onion, finely diced
- 1 tsp freshly minced garlic
- 2 cups basmati rice, washed and drained (400 g)
- 1 piece lemon, juice and zest
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock (500 ml, see note for gluten-free)
- ½ tsp sea salt flakes
- 2 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add the finely diced onion and freshly minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir the washed and drained basmati rice into the saucepan with the aromatics.
- Immediately add the lemon juice, chicken or vegetable stock, and sea salt.
- Increase heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Cooking
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and cook for 12–14 minutes until small pits appear on the surface of the rice and all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow it to stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.
- Uncover the rice and fluff it gently with a fork.
- Stir through the lemon zest, chopped parsley, and fresh dill.
