Nut-Free Lemon Herb Mediterranean Rice

Infused with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this Nut-Free Lemon Herb Mediterranean Rice is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. Fluffy long-grain white rice is simmered to perfection in a fragrant blend of olive oil, garlic, and onion, then brightened with zesty lemon juice and zest for a refreshing tang. Aromatic herbs like oregano and thyme bring an earthy balance, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. This nut-free recipe is quick to make, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a flavor-packed, gluten-free crowd-pleaser that’s loaded with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the rice to the pan, stirring to coat the grains in the oil and onion mixture.

Step 5

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Step 6

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 7

Cover the saucepan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 8

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 9

Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in the chopped fresh parsley.

Step 10

Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1286.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	789.5

Total Fat 31.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2825.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 111.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.5g	0%
Total Sugars 7.0g
Protein 15.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 279.5mg	0%
Iron 9.2mg	0%
Potassium 1103.9mg	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: 35.6%

Protein: 7.8%

Carbs: 56.6%