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Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf Recipe

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4.3 from 70 reviews

This Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf is a zesty, flavorful side dish featuring long grain white rice cooked in chicken broth with bright lemon juice, fresh garlic, onion, and aromatic herbs. The rice is tender and infused with layers of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, perfect served warm or at room temperature.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 to 6 servings

Ingredients

Rice Pilaf

  • 1 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or butter
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped (white, brown, or yellow)
  • 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water

Flavorings

  • Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tsp)
  • 3 to 4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill (or substitute with parsley, oregano, basil, chives, or mint)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan or small pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, and cook for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and sweet, releasing their fragrance.
  2. Add Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice until the grains turn mostly translucent, coating them well with the oil and aromatics to enhance the flavor.
  3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then cover the pot with a lid. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
  4. Cook the Rice: Let the rice cook covered for about 12 minutes or until the liquid has completely evaporated and the rice grains are tender.
  5. Rest the Rice: Remove the pot from heat but keep the lid on. Allow the rice to rest undisturbed for 10 minutes to finish steaming and fluff up.
  6. Add Lemon and Herbs: Remove the lid and gently stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, dill (or your choice of herbs), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve: Enjoy the pilaf warm or at room temperature as a delicious side dish that complements a variety of meals.

Notes

  • Long grain rice is ideal for this recipe, but medium or short grain, basmati, and jasmine rice also work well. Avoid risotto or paella rice.
  • If using brown rice, increase the water quantity and cooking time according to package instructions.
  • Nutrition info is based on 6 servings, about 3/4 cup packed per serving.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Sides
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Greek

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/greek-lemon-rice-pilaf-recipe/