Lemon Herb Rice

When it comes to elevating a meal, side dishes play a crucial role in enhancing both flavor and presentation. Among the numerous options available, Zesty Lemon Herb Rice stands out as a bright, refreshing, and aromatic accompaniment that can perfectly complement a variety of main courses. This dish not only brings vibrant colors to your plate but also infuses it with a delightful burst of citrus and herbaceous notes that tantalize the taste buds.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Herb Rice, a refreshing side dish that elevates any meal! This simple recipe combines fluffy basmati rice with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon juice, and savory aromatics like garlic and onion. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, it's nutritious and easy to customize. Learn how to make this delightful dish and bring a burst of color and flavor to your dinner table. Happy cooking!

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Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 large lemon

Juice of 1 large lemon

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: Lemon wedges and additional herbs for garnish

Instructions

Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. Drain well.

Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and toast it with the onion and garlic for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the rice is evenly coated with the oil and lightly toasted.

Add Liquid and Seasoning: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, followed by the lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors.

Cook the Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, cover the saucepan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Fluff and Add Herbs: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Afterward, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Stir in the chopped parsley and basil, adjusting seasoning if necessary.

Serve: Transfer the lemon herb rice to a serving dish. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your zesty side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or as a foundation for a vibrant vegetarian meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4