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Overhead view of lemon herb rice in a white bowl, flecked with parsley and feta, on a linen napkin.

Bright Lemon Herb Rice, Simple Mediterranean Style

A one-pot lemon rice side simmered with onion and garlic, then finished with lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh parsley, dill, and mint.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 203

Ingredients
  

For the rice
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice (300 g); rinsed until water runs clear
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (45 ml)
  • 1 yellow onion small (80 g); finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth (720 ml)
  • lemon zest zest of 2 lemons
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
To finish
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (60 ml); about 2 lemons
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley (20 g); chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill (10 g); chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint (10 g); chopped
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta (50 g); optional, for serving

Method
 

Cook the rice
  1. Heat the olive oil in a 3-quart / 2.8 L saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until soft and translucent.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don't let it brown or it will taste bitter.
  3. Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat it in the oil. Toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, until the grains look slightly translucent at the edges.
  4. Pour in the broth and add the lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir once, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  5. Cover the pot, lower the heat to low, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, without lifting the lid, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  6. Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This lets the last of the steam finish cooking it evenly.
Finish and serve
  1. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste a spoonful, the grains should be soft but still hold their shape, not mushy.
  2. Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, dill, and mint until evenly mixed through the rice.
  3. Taste and add more salt if needed, keeping in mind the feta will add extra saltiness. Sprinkle with crumbled feta if using, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Rinse the rice well before cooking to avoid a sticky texture.
  • Keep the lid on while simmering, do not check it repeatedly.
  • Zest the lemons before juicing, it's easier that way.
  • Add herbs and lemon juice off the heat, not while boiling.