Brighten up your table with this fragrant and flavorful Lemon Dill Rice, a zesty side dish that pairs beautifully with seafood, chicken, or grilled vegetables. Fluffy long-grain white rice is toasted in buttery garlic, simmered with fresh lemon juice and zest, and finished with a burst of herby freshness from chopped dill. Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, this vibrant dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. The delicate balance of citrus, herbs, and creamy butter makes it a versatile crowd-pleaser thatβs as comforting as it is refreshing. Perfectly seasoned and irresistibly aromatic, Lemon Dill Rice is your new go-to side dish for meals that need a touch of sunshine.
Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
Finely mince the garlic and chop the fresh dill. Set both aside.
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the rice and toast it in the butter for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains are lightly coated.
Add the water, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow it to steam and fully fluff up.
Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped dill, mixing evenly throughout the dish.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite protein.
Calories |
480 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.7 g | 32% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.2 g | 71% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 1204 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 60.7 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.9 g | ||
| Protein | 6.1 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 77 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 159 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.