Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf (Printable version)
Fluffy rice with fresh herbs and lemon, perfect as a flavorful side.
# What You'll Need:
→ Rice and Grains
01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
02 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
→ Aromatics and Flavorings
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
→ Herbs and Citrus
06 - 1 lemon, zested (about 1 tablespoon) and juiced (2 tablespoons)
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Prepare:
01 - Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear; drain well.
02 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
03 - Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
04 - Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the grains to lightly toast.
05 - Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
06 - Remove from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
07 - Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
08 - Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs and lemon slices if desired.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- It feels like a little secret how fluffy and fragrant the rice turns out with just a handful of simple ingredients
- The fresh lemon and herbs give it a brightness that makes it a perfect partner to so many dishes
02 -
- Rinsing your rice until the water runs clear is key to avoiding sticky, gummy rice
- Letting the rice rest covered after cooking helps it reach the ideal fluffy texture
03 -
- Always toast your rice lightly before simmering to deepen the flavor profile
- Using low-sodium broth ensures you can season perfectly without overdoing salt