| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 3g | 0.5g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 0.6g | 5g | 0.4g |
The warmth of a family kitchen, resonant with laughter and the sound of culinary creation, is where my love for cooking was ignited. No ingredient in my recipe repertoire holds more meaning than when I remember my Irish grandmother teaching me how to cook. Years later, I bear the fruits of her teachings – one of them being this mouthwateringly delicious Lemon Dill Rice recipe.
With a mix of vibrant flavors, it is a dish that echoes the same hearty comfort found in the traditions I inherited, while tipping its hat to the flavors of the world.
Aromatic and Versatile
Renown for its fresh and aromatic nature, the Lemon Dill Rice is a flexible side dish that can accompany numerous main entrees. Believe me when I say, it shares a charming companionship with grilled fish, baked chicken, or even a plateful of delectable Shrimp Scampi. Its citrusy zest and subtle herb notes help complement the richness of protein, providing a well-balanced meal.
A Bouquet of Healthy Blessings
Being a dad has made me more conscious of the food I cook. This Lemon Dill Rice isn’t just a flavor marvel, but it’s also an incredible source of nutrition for my family. Its hero ingredients, such as olive oil and lemon, are not just flavoring agents but a powerhouse of health benefits. Lemon is an excellent source of Vitamin C, beneficial for boosting immunity, while olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats for heart health. Together, they make this humble rice dish a meal that loves you back.
I would be remiss not to mention how my Laura’s eyes light up when the aroma of this Lemon Dill Rice cooking fills our home. A dish like this, preparing which feels like a sweet labor of love, truly becomes more special when shared with loved ones.
There’s a joy in the simplicity of this dish, which mirrors the happiness found in dining together with my loved ones. Such is the wonder of the Lemon Dill Rice, a recipe that not just epitomizes my love for cooking but also pays homage to my family traditions.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of basmati rice
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of dill, freshly chopped
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Method
Step One
First, rinse your basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This is done to remove any excess starch and helps in preventing your rice from becoming gummy once cooked.
Step Two
Next, in a large saucepan, bring the 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for around 15 minutes, or until the rice absorbs all the water and becomes tender.
Step Three
While the rice is simmering, prepare your lemon dill mixture. In a small bowl, combine the freshly chopped dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir it well and set it aside.
Step Four
Once the rice has fully cooked, remove it from heat. Stir in the olive oil, ensuring the rice is fully coated. This adds flavour and helps prevent the rice from clumping together.
Step Five
Now, pour the prepared lemon dill mixture into the saucepan with the rice. Add salt and black pepper for taste, then stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the mixture.
Step Six
Finally, fluff your lemon dill rice with a fork before serving. This process will help to separate the grains and distribute flavour evenly. Enjoy your homemade lemon dill rice on its own or as a delicious accompaniment to your main course.
