Mediterranean Garlic Herb Rice (Easy & Flavorful!)

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🌿 Light, aromatic, and packed with Mediterranean flavors, this Garlic Herb Rice is the perfect side dish! Infused with garlic and fresh herbs, this dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, roasted vegetables, or Mediterranean bowls.

It’s simple, quick, and made with pantry staples, making it an effortless yet elegant addition to any meal—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes!
✅ Full of Mediterranean Flavor – Garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of olive oil make it irresistible.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Serve it with kebabs, falafel, or as a base for grain bowls.
✅ Light & Healthy – No heavy ingredients, just fresh, wholesome goodness.

📝 Ingredients

🔹 1 cup long-grain rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
🔹 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (for richer flavor, use homemade broth!)
🔹 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
🔹 4 cloves garlic, minced
🔹 ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
🔹 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
🔹 ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for a fresh citrus kick!)
🔹 Salt & pepper to taste

🍋 For extra Mediterranean flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving!

📌 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Rice

✔️ Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. (This removes excess starch and prevents mushy rice!)

2️⃣ Sauté the Garlic

✔️ In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
✔️ Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3️⃣ Toast the Rice

✔️ Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it with the garlicky oil.
✔️ Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly toasted.

4️⃣ Cook the Rice

✔️ Pour in broth and season with salt & pepper.
✔️ Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

5️⃣ Finish & Serve

✔️ Remove from heat and let sit (covered) for 5 minutes.
✔️ Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped parsley, thyme, and lemon zest.
✔️ Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

🍽️ Serve warm with grilled lamb, chicken souvlaki, or roasted eggplant!

🌿 Tips & Variations

✅ Add more flavor – Stir in butter or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for richness.
✅ Make it nutty – Add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch.
✅ Switch up the herbs – Try basil, oregano, or mint for a fresh twist.
✅ Turn it into a meal – Mix in chickpeas, feta cheese, or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired rice bowl.

🛍️ Storage & Reheating

🧊 To Store – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔥 To Reheat – Warm in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it fluffy.
❄️ To Freeze – Let cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.

🌟 Tried This Recipe?

Let me know how you liked it in the comments below! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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