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Lemon Rice

This zesty lemon rice is a versatile vegetarian side dish that brings a bright, citrusy lift to any meal. By frying pre-cooked rice in a little butter or olive oil with fresh garlic and plenty of black pepper, you create a dish with a wonderful depth of flavour and a satisfying texture. It is an excellent way to use up leftover rice, transforming simple staples into a fragrant accompaniment that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled fish, or Mediterraneanstews.

Quick to prepare and naturally comforting, this homemade lemon rice fits perfectly into a busy weeknight routine. The combination of fresh lemon juice and garlic provides a sharp, clean finish that balances richer main courses. For the best results, use high-quality butter and finish with an extra squeeze of lemon just before serving to ensure the citrus notes really sing on the plate.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Lemon Rice

  • 60ml (1/2 stick) butter (preferred) or extra-virgin olive oil

  • 725 to 950ml cooked rice, made by any method

  • Salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper

  • N/A freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

  • Juice of 2 lemons, plus more if needed

  • 1 lemon, quartered

How to make Lemon Rice

  1. Heat half the butter or oil over medium-high heat in a large non-stick skillet; when the butter foam subsides or the oil is hot, spoon in the cooked rice, tossing and stirring.

  2. Season with salt to taste, lots of pepper, the garlic, and most of the lemon juice. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes, or until hot. Stir in the remaining butter or oil and cook for 1 minutes.

  3. Remove the rice from the pan to a platter, add the remaining lemon juice and serve, with lemon quarters.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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