Low Sodium Lemon Rice

Bright, zesty, and heart-healthy, this Low Sodium Lemon Rice is a flavorful side dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Featuring fluffy basmati rice infused with the tangy zest and juice of fresh lemons, this recipe is balanced with the earthy warmth of turmeric, aromatic garlic, and savory unsalted vegetable broth. A touch of black pepper and a sprinkle of fresh parsley bring the flavors together while keeping the sodium in check, making it perfect for those watching their salt intake. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick 30-minute cooking time, this citrus-infused rice is an ideal accompaniment to grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or your favorite lean protein. Chase the blues away with this sunny, vibrant dish that’s light yet deeply satisfying!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 0.5 cup Onion, finely chopped
• 0.5 cup Unsalted vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Turmeric
• 1 whole Bay leaf

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the saucepan and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the turmeric and black pepper, allowing the spices to cook for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.

Step 5

Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat the rice with the oil and spices.

Step 6

Pour in the unsalted vegetable broth and water, then add the bay leaf. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 8

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 9

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.

Step 10

Remove the bay leaf, then stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley.

Step 11

Fluff the rice gently with a fork, taste for seasoning, and adjust if necessary, keeping in mind the intent to keep the dish low sodium.

Step 12

Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(961.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	438.8

Total Fat 15.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 2.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 31.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 67.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.9g	0%
Total Sugars 5.8g
Protein 9.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 118.4mg	0%
Iron 4.5mg	0%
Potassium 404.1mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.8%

Protein: 8.3%

Carbs: 60.9%