Lemon Rice

Rice is a staple side dish that can be made in a variety of ways. We have made Garlic Butter Rice, Yellow Rice, Jasmine Rice Recipe, Butter Rice and Mexican Rice for an easy side dish that everyone loves.

Rice is budget friendly and with a variety of spices you can easily change the flavor. The lemon rice is one of our favorites because the hint of lemon in every bite.

Why We Love Lemon Rice

As a busy mom of 8, I love side dishes that take very little prep time and cooks quick and easy. This lemon rice is so light and refreshing that I love to make with many grilled dishes.

The rice can easily be prepared ahead of time and so all you have to do is mix with the simple seasoning. The next time you need a side dish that everyone will love, make Lemon Rice.

Ingredients

• Long-Grain White Rice – You can use rice of choice even brown rice
• Water – For even more flavor use chicken broth
• Butter – We used unsalted butter
• Olive Oil – We also like using avocado oil
• Onion – See Best Onion Substitute if you are out
• Cloves Garlic – Learn How to Mince Garlic Cloves
• Lemon Juice – See Best Substitute for Lemon Juice if you are out

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe in the recipe card.

Additions and Variations

The lemon rice is even better with these additions and variations.

• Add Crunch – Add in nuts such as Peanuts, almonds, pecans and cashews are great additions.
• Tomato Rice – You can easily add in some diced tomatoes for a delicious variations.
• Fresh Herbs – A great addition to this rice is fresh herbs. Ginger, turmeric, curry leaves and coriander leaves can add flavor.

How to Make Lemon Rice

Step 1 – Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.

Step 2 – In a medium saucepan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.

Step 3 – Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4 – Stir in the rinsed rice, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 5 – Pour in the water, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 6 – Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

• Step 7 – Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
• Step 8 – Discard the bay leaf. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley. 

Expert Tips

• Rice Recommendation – While long-grain white rice works best, you can use basmati rice or jasmine rice for different flavors and textures.
• Lemon – Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your taste preference. For a milder lemon flavor, start with less and add more if needed.
• Rice – Make sure to rinse the rinse before cooking on the stovetop.
• Cooking Time – Cooking time will vary depending on how much you are making. You will know that your rice is finished cooking when the liquid has absorbed and the rice is tender.

Serving Suggestions

This Greek Lemon Rice is a delicious side dish recipe that pairs perfectly with many main dish recipes.

• Greek Chicken Kabobs
• Steak Kabobs Recipe
• Skillet Pork Chops
• Teriyaki Salmon Recipe