Description
Looking for a quick and flavorful side dish that goes with just about anything? This Lemony Herby Rice delivers vibrant citrus, fresh herbs, and fluffy texture in every bite—perfect for quick breakfasts, healthy snacks, or easy dinner ideas. Whether you serve it with grilled meat, veggies, or use it as a base for grain bowls, this easy recipe will become one of your go-to food ideas for every season.
Ingredients
1 cup long grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill or a mix), finely chopped
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir for 2–3 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
4. Pour in water or broth and season with salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 more minutes to finish steaming.
7. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then add lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh herbs.
8. Mix gently, season with additional salt or pepper if needed, and serve warm.
Notes
Always rinse your rice thoroughly to prevent it from turning sticky.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
Stir in herbs only after cooking to preserve their color and aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy dinner, quick breakfast, healthy snack, rice side dish, lemon rice, herb rice