Easy Lemon Rice

Say goodbye to ordinary white rice! You’ll start using this recipe for lemon rice as your go-to side dish for everything. Before realizing that a few easy pantry ingredients can quickly transform regular rice from dull to spectacular, I wasted years serving my family boring rice. It’s not just good for you; it’s divine! It is excellent on its own or with Greek chicken, pork, shrimp, veggies, beef or lamb kabobs. Together with basic spices, the subtle lemon flavor creates a delicious dish that also has a savory scent. This rich yet straightforward long grain side dish will improve your dining experience right in your home kitchen.

Ingredients in Lemon Rice

This rice has a beautiful Mediterranean flair, yet only uses easy to find, simple ingredients. Here’s all you need:

White rice – you can use any long grain rice you like, or basmati rice.Water – you can use chicken broth to add more flavor, or add a tablespoon of butter to your boiling water.Olive oil – substitute avocado oil or peanut oil if you like.Fresh lemon juice – I use the juice of two fresh lemons, or you can use bottled lemon juice.Garlic cloves – crushed or mincedGinger – just a pinch of dried ginger or zest some fresh ginger into the rice mixture​Salt and pepper to taste

Additions and Substitutions to Lemon Rice

This easy rice recipe can be dressed up dozens of ways! Make it differently every time and your family will never get bored with rice for dinner. Here are a few ideas to add flavor to your grains:

For extra crunch, stir in a handful of your favorite nuts: slivered almonds, pecans or cashews.Throw in some raisins for a delicious texture and flavor.For added flavor, try spicing things up with red chilies, curry leaves, chili powder, turmeric, fresh dill, parsley or mustard seedsNo need to complicate the rice cooking process. Prepare your rice as you normally would, in a rice cooker, instant pot or on the stove top. Then add the extra ingredients as directed in the recipe card below.For an even creamier texture, I’ve seen recipes where the rice is cooked in broth and milk instead of water. The milk gives the rice a soft, creamy texture and flavor. I’ve never tried it in this particular recipe, but it’s next on my list!For a more authentic Indian flavor, add cilantro, curry powder (about half a teaspoon) or diced green chiles.Garnish with thin lemon slices and cilantro.

FAQs

What to Serve with Lemon Rice

This rice is delicious on its own or with any Indian or Greek style recipe. Here are a few of our favorites:

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Coconut Korma

Coconut Curry

Baked Salmon with Lemon

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