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Fresh Lemon Dill Rice Pilaf

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A quick and easy rice pilaf with bright lemon and fresh dill flavors, perfect as a zesty side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (preferably basmati or jasmine)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (a handful)
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the rinsed and drained rice and stir frequently for 3-4 minutes until the grains turn slightly golden and smell nutty.
  4. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook, stirring often, until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid browning the garlic.
  5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stir in salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  7. Remove the pan from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  8. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped dill.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  10. Optional: Stir in toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch and prevents gumminess. Toasting the rice adds a subtle nutty flavor. Do not lift the lid while simmering to keep steam trapped for fluffy rice. Resting the rice after cooking firms up the grains and improves texture. Add lemon juice and dill at the end to preserve brightness. For dairy-free, substitute butter with extra olive oil or coconut oil. Optional nuts add crunch and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon dill rice pilaf, lemon rice, dill rice, easy rice side dish, quick rice pilaf, gluten-free side dish, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/fresh-lemon-dill-rice-pilaf-recipe-easy-zesty-flavor-for-perfect-side-dish/