Are you fed up with the same old white rice? We were, too, which prompted me to conduct some experimentation and study unique ideas to jazz up white rice. So, which one is our personal favorite? This dish for lemon rice is fantastic and goes amazingly with this Greek gyro!

This dish is a riff on Greek rice and takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare, which is approximately the same amount of time it takes to prepare conventional rice! So, with a sprinkle of this and a smidgeon of that, you’ll have a new favorite, a quick lemon rice meal to add to your dinner rotation.

Lemon Rice in the Traditional Greek Style

By cooking it with some onion, vegetable broth, and lemon, you can turn ordinary long-grain rice into a delicious dish that can stand on its own. And if you want to improve it, add some parsley and lemon zest right before serving. Unless, of course, you’re following in the footsteps of your wise and wonderful mother and grandmother, who knew that it’s not necessary when serving it with a saucy meat dish.

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 small white onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 2 cups (500 ml) water or vegetable broth

• 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Zest of ½ lemon (optional)

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 ½ Tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the onion
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

2. Toast the rice
Add the rice and stir constantly for 1 minute, until lightly golden.

3. Simmer
Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then cover with a lid and reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes, depending on the type of rice, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Rest the rice
Remove the pan from the heat. Keep covered and let the rice sit for 10 minutes to steam and finish cooking.

5. Finish with lemon
Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in lemon juice, freshly ground black pepper, and salt to taste.

6. Garnish & serve
Top with lemon zest and parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success

• Use broth instead of water for extra flavor.

• Always let the rice rest — it helps the grains separate and stay fluffy.

• Add a little butter at the end for a richer taste.

Serving Ideas

Pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, salmon, lamb skewers, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a great base for meal prep bowls.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is rice pilaf, exactly?

Rice pilaf is a kind of rice, including this Greek rice. Rice pilaf is made by heating rice with sautéed onion and garlic, then simmering the rice in broth. This is the most basic sort of pilaf; it often includes meat, such as chicken or beef, as well as a variety of spices and herbs.

Can I make Greek Lemon Rice in a rice cooker?

It’s not something I’d suggest. The rice should be prepared on the stovetop since it will be sautéed with onion and garlic.

Could I use brown rice instead?

You can try but bear in mind that it will take longer to prepare and may necessitate additional liquid. Check the rice package directions for detailed information on the optimal rice-to-liquid ratio.