Mediterranean Lemon Herb Rice

This Mediterranean lemon herb rice is light, fragrant, and easy to pair with many dishes. Fluffy basmati rice is finished with fresh herbs, lemon zest, and garlic infused oil to create a simple side that works well with fish, chicken, or roasted vegetables.

Serves: 3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1½ cups water
  • 1 tbsp garlic infused oil
  • 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onion tops
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • ½ tsp fine sea salt (or to taste)
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil.
  3. Cover the pan and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 12–15 minutes until the rice is tender.
  4. Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  5. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  6. While the rice is still warm, drizzle the garlic infused oil over the top.
  7. Add parsley, dill, chives, and lemon zest. Fold gently to keep the rice light and fluffy.
  8. Season with black pepper and adjust salt if needed. Serve warm.

Tips

Add the herbs after the rice finishes cooking so their flavour stays fresh and their colour remains vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

This rice pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, roasted vegetables, or Mediterranean-style dishes.