Zesty Lemon Herb Rice
Elevate your meal with this refreshing Zesty Lemon Herb Rice recipe. Perfectly fluffy long-grain rice is cooked in a savory blend of chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, infused with fragrant basil and zesty lemon peel. This vibrant side dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or as a delightful bed for roasted vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Serve it at your next gathering to impress your guests with its bright taste and colorful presentation.
4
Servings
120
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
1 cup (none)
chicken broth
1 cup (none)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
butter
2 teaspoons (or margarine)
uncooked long grain rice
1 cup (none)
dried basil
1/4 teaspoon (none)
grated lemon zest
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon (none)
lemon pepper seasoning
1 1/4 teaspoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, chicken broth, lemon juice, butter (or margarine), uncooked rice, dried basil, and grated lemon zest. Stir gently to combine.
2
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
3
Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and allow the rice to simmer slowly for 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to steam the rice.
5
Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning just before serving. Enjoy your Zesty Lemon Herb Rice!
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lemon Herb Rice?
Zesty Lemon Herb Rice is a refreshing side dish made with fluffy long-grain rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, dried basil, and lemon zest.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving of this rice?
There are approximately 120 calories per serving.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies using uncooked long-grain rice for a fluffy texture.
Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the liquid and the cooking time according to the brown rice package instructions.
What liquid is used to cook the rice?
The rice is cooked in a combination of 1 cup of water and 1 cup of chicken broth.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a plant-based margarine or olive oil instead of butter.
How long does it take to simmer the rice?
The rice should simmer covered for 20 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed.
Do I need to let the rice rest after cooking?
Yes, after removing from heat, let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to steam.
What seasoning is added at the very end?
Lemon pepper seasoning is sprinkled over the rice just before serving.
How much butter is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of butter or margarine.
Should I use fresh or bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
What dried herb provides the fragrance in this dish?
Dried basil is used to infuse the rice with a fragrant herbal flavor.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, if using fresh basil, use about 3/4 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon since fresh herbs are less potent than dried.
How much lemon zest do I need?
You will need between 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of grated lemon zest.
What main dishes pair well with Zesty Lemon Herb Rice?
It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
Is this rice recipe gluten-free?
Rice is naturally gluten-free; however, check your chicken broth and lemon pepper labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains 3 grams of protein.
What is the best way to fluff the rice?
Use a fork to gently fluff the grains after the 5-minute steaming period.
Can this recipe be made in a rice cooker?
Yes, place all ingredients except the lemon pepper in the rice cooker and use the standard white rice setting.
How should I store leftover rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze Zesty Lemon Herb Rice?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked rice in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
What can I use if I do not have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or 1 cup of water with a bouillon cube.
Why is the rice allowed to steam for 5 minutes?
Steaming allows the moisture to distribute evenly so the rice is tender and doesn't stick together.
Can I add more lemon flavor if I prefer?
Yes, you can add extra lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before fluffing the rice.
How much fat is in this recipe?
This recipe is low in fat, containing only 2 grams per serving.
Can I add vegetables directly to the rice while it cooks?
Yes, small vegetables like peas or finely diced carrots can be added at the beginning of the simmer.
What exactly is lemon pepper seasoning?
It is a spice blend typically made of granulated lemon zest and cracked black pepper.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients; just ensure you use a large enough saucepan to accommodate the extra volume.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
While usually served hot as a side dish, it can also be used cold as a base for a Mediterranean rice salad.