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Various rice recipes for dinner side dishes, ready to serve

Lemon Herb Basmati Rice

This vibrant Lemon Herb Basmati Rice is a refreshing and aromatic side dish, perfect for complementing a variety of main courses. It's quick to prepare and packed with bright, savory flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Lid
  • Fork

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Basmati rice
  • 1.5 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 0.5 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter for fluffing Optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear, then drain it well.
  • Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add the diced onion and cook until softened for 3-4 minutes.

Cooking

  • Add minced garlic and dried oregano to the saucepan; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  • Stir in the rinsed rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, then pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
  • Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes.

Finishing

  • Uncover and stir in chopped parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice; optionally, add 1 tablespoon of butter for richness.
  • Gently fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can toast the rice longer before adding the broth. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your personal preference for a brighter citrusy kick.