Herb Lemon Rice is perfect if you are looking for a fresh, vibrant side dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect way to elevate plain rice into something bright, zesty, and full of flavor, without much effort at all.
This recipe is a great match for just about any protein or veggie you’re serving, from grilled fish or shrimp to roasted vegetables or Mediterranean dishes. The combo of lemon zest, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil gives it that “wow” factor while still keeping things simple and wholesome.
It’s also naturally gluten-free and easy to prep ahead for entertaining or your weekly meal prep.
What You’ll Love About Herb Lemon Rice
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, which makes it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.
- Allergy friendly: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
- Fresh and versatile: Full of fresh, bright lemon flavor. This herb lemon rice pairs beautifully with seafood, veggies, or roasted chicken.
- Great for a crowd: Light, fluffy texture and delicious served warm or at room temp. Easy to double for a crowd or entertaining.
Ingredients for Herb Lemon Rice
- White rice: Long-grain, such as jasmine or basmati. Cooks up fluffy and light
- Kosher salt: Essential for flavoring the rice
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and depth. You can substitute avocado oil.
- Lemon zest: This gives the rice a bright, citrusy aroma.
- Fresh lemon juice: The fresh citrus balances and lifts the flavor.
- Fresh parsley: For vibrant color and fresh taste.
- Fresh mint: Adds a cool, herby note. This is a great way to use up the garden mint.
- Black pepper: Adds a mellow, but subtle kick.
Head to the printable recipe card below for exact measurements.
How To Make Herb Lemon Rice
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add rice and then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, 15 to 18 minutes.
- Let it sit: Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff and flavor: Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gently fold in the parsley and mint. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature as a light, herby side dish.
Tips & Variations
- No mint: Try using basil, dill, or cilantro. Any soft leafy herb will work and it’s a great way to use up those garden herbs.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or sliced grilled chicken breast for a quick meal idea.
- Try brown rice: Just extend the cook time based on package instructions.
- Meal prep tip: This dish keeps well and can be made a day ahead. Which makes it the perfect side dish for weekday meal prep.
Herb Lemon Rice
- Prep Time: 2 Minutes
- Cook Time: 18 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 Minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
Description
Herb Lemon Rice is bright, fresh, and incredibly simple, this side dish pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or any Mediterranean-style meal. Lemon zest and fresh herbs bring ordinary rice to life in the best way.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1 Tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from about 1/2 lemon)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine the water and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the rice. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, then stir in olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Fold in parsley and mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Storage: Refrigerate any leftover Herb Lemon Rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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