| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 18 mins – 21 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 256 | 8g | 2g | 43g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 2g | 5g | 0.4g |
A satisfying meal for both the taste buds and the body, Lemon Thyme Rice is a remarkable recipe that brings together the tang of lemons and the subtle flavors of thyme. This recipe is an enchanting blend of my Pacific Northwest upbringing and my Japanese heritage, combining the zesty freshness of a Seattle summer with the gentle comforting notes prevalent in traditional Japanese cuisine.
A Special Place in My Kitchen
The wonderful thing about Lemon Thyme Rice is its simplicity without compromising on taste. It brings back the hues of my Seattle childhood, with its abundance of fresh produce and the subtle, understated flavors I associate with my mother’s cooking. The recipe embodies the kind of food I love to craft in my kitchen – simple, healthful, and filled with personality.
The lemons used in this dish add not only a delightful citrus twang but also provide an excellent source of vitamin C. This bright and zesty component not only complements the subtle thyme but also provides excellent antioxidant benefits.
Ally in Versatility
Another aspect which makes me fall in love with this recipe over and over again is its versatility. This vegan-friendly Lemon Thyme Rice bears a resemblance to the flavorful pilafs of the Middle East. Pilafs are renowned for their health benefits and their ability to complement a myriad of dishes, from grilled vegetables to hearty stews. This dish can seamlessly align with lean proteins for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. It also pairs delightfully with seafood dishes making it a versatile component of any meal.
Whether it’s a comforting dinner for yourself or a delightful side for family dinner, Lemon Thyme Rice will exceed expectations every time. Enjoy this dish and its testimony to a harmony of cultures – distinctly refreshing and beautifully simple.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups of long-grain white rice
- 3 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Zest of 2 large lemons
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 5 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step One
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any excess starch from the grains, ensuring fluffy and separated rice.
Step Two
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring the contents to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed.
Step Three
While the rice is cooking, prepare the lemon and thyme dressing. Heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the lemon zest and the leaves from the thyme sprigs to the pan and fry gently until they start to release their flavors.
Step Four
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Set this aside to infuse while the rice finishes cooking.
Step Five
When the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat. Add the butter, and pour the lemon and thyme dressing over the top. Fluff the rice with a fork to ensure all the grains are coated and the flavors are well distributed.
Step Six
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the rice and give it one last stir before serving. This lemon thyme rice is a delicious and fragrant side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken or fish. Enjoy!
