Lemon Herb Rice for Summer

Lemon Herb Rice for Summer

As the warm breeze of summer approaches, our meals often shift to lighter, more refreshing options. Lemon Herb Rice is a perfect dish for this season, combining the zesty flavor of lemon with aromatic herbs for a delightful side dish or a main course that can stand on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Method

1. Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky.

2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed rice, water, olive oil, and salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.

3. Fluff and Cool: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the butter and gently fluff the rice with a fork, allowing the butter to melt and coat the grains. Let it cool slightly.

4. 

   Add Lemon and Herbs: Once the rice is warm, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, cilantro, and mint. Mix until well combined. Season with black pepper and adjust the salt if necessary.

5. Serve: Transfer the Lemon Herb Rice to a serving dish and garnish with additional herbs if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritious Value

Lemon Herb Rice is not only flavorful but also nutritious. Basmati rice provides a good source of energy and is lower on the glycemic index compared to other types of rice. The use of fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint adds a wealth of vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants. Lemon juice contributes vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function and skin health.

Pairing Suggestions

Lemon Herb Rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes and beverages:

• Side Dishes/Salads: Grilled chicken or fish complements this rice well. You can also pair it with a Greek salad or a cucumber-yogurt salad for a refreshing touch.
• Drinks: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy lemonade enhances the lemony notes of the rice. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon and mint leaves is a perfect match.

Enjoy this Lemon Herb Rice as a refreshing and nutritious addition to your summer menu!