Greek rice is a popular side dish at Greek restaurants that typically consists of a lemony rice pilaf made with plump grains of rice cooked in garlic, onion, chicken stock, and fresh herbs, then garnished with fresh lemon juice for a pop of freshness. It's hearty and comforting yet light and refreshing at the same time.

What kind of rice do Greek restaurants use?

Most Greek restaurants use long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine rice, for their famous Greek rice. These types separate into individual grains after cooking and stay dry and fluffy, unlike short-grain varieties, which can easily become sticky and clump together.

It can be, but you'll want to ask about the cooking liquid. This easy Greek rice recipe uses chicken broth to give the rice extra flavor, but you can use vegetable broth instead. If you get Greek rice at a restaurant, you'll want to double-check!

Greek Rice

Name: Greek Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small white onion, diced; 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice (basmati or jasmine), rinsed and drained well; 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 teaspoon dried dill; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Description

This simple Greek Rice is lemony, full of herbs, and warm, delicious flavors — and it couldn't be much easier to make! The rice is toasted for a nutty flavor and then simmered with sautéed onions and garlic, broth, and dill to infuse flavor in every grain. Add in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley for even more flavor when serving. It's the perfect side dish to pair with Greek dishes or serve as your go-to herb rice dish for any meal!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small white onion, diced
1 1/2 cups long grain white rice (basmati or jasmine), rinsed and drained well
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 tablespoon lemon juice (or to taste)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

In a medium sized pot, heat oil over medium-high heat until sizzling hot, about 1 minute. Add garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add rice and toast until the rice turns almost translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add broth, salt, and dill. Mix well and bring it to a boil.
Turn the heat to low and cover the lid. Simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Top with lemon juice and parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

How to store: Allow the rice to cool then transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3-4 days.

How to reheat: The best way to reheat rice is to place it in a small pot and add a splash of water. Cover and heat over medium, allowing the rice to steam slightly. You can also microwave for a few minutes.

How to freeze: Leftovers can easily be frozen for several months. Simply thaw in the fridge and reheat like normal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Rice
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Greek