Description
Lemon Herb Rice is a bright and fresh twist on classic rice, bursting with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. Easy to prepare and versatile, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins, roasted vegetables, or can be customized with various spices and add-ins to suit any meal occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati rice
Lemon & Herbs
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or cilantro, finely chopped
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Cook the rice according to package instructions by simmering it in water until tender and all water is absorbed, typically about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Lemon Herb Mixture: While the rice cooks, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and finely chopped herbs in a small bowl. Whisk in olive oil or melted butter, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine and Fluff: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork to keep grains separated. Pour the lemon herb mixture over the warm rice and fold it in carefully to evenly distribute the flavors without crushing the rice.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt, lemon juice, or herbs as desired. Serve immediately for the freshest, most vibrant flavor.
Notes
- Rinse rice thoroughly to avoid gummy texture.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor and color.
- Don’t skip lemon zest to enhance citrus aroma.
- Fluff rice with a fork to maintain lightness.
- Serve warm for best taste, but can be enjoyed cold in salads.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg