Greek rice pilaf is a timeless and versatile dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its fragrant herbs, vibrant flavors, and comforting textures.
Whether you’re looking for a simple side to accompany grilled meats or a hearty vegetarian option, Greek rice pilaf offers endless possibilities to suit every palate.
From classic lemon and dill combinations to creative variations with olives, pine nuts, or roasted vegetables, these recipes celebrate the fresh, wholesome ingredients that make Greek cooking so beloved.
In this article, you’ll discover over 25 delicious Greek rice pilaf recipes that will inspire you to bring authentic flavors and wholesome goodness to your kitchen.
25+ Delicious Greek Rice Pilaf Recipes to Try Today
Exploring these 25+ Greek rice pilaf recipes shows just how adaptable and flavorful this classic dish can be.
Whether you prefer the bright tang of lemon, the savory depth of caramelized onions, or the nutty crunch of pine nuts, there’s a pilaf here for every taste and occasion.
These recipes not only make fantastic side dishes but can also stand alone as light, satisfying meals.
Incorporate them into your weekly rotation to enjoy the wholesome, fresh, and vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine right at home.
With such variety and ease, Greek rice pilaf is sure to become a staple on your dining table.
Greek Lemon Rice Pilaf
This Greek lemon rice pilaf is a bright, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or Mediterranean-inspired meals.
The subtle tang of fresh lemon juice combined with aromatic herbs elevates simple rice into a refreshing and vibrant dish.
It’s easy to prepare and makes a great addition to any dinner table looking for a touch of Greek flair.
Ingredients:
- Long grain white rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add rice and toast lightly for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in broth, lemon juice, and zest; season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in fresh dill and parsley just before serving.
This lemon-infused rice pilaf is wonderfully fragrant and light, providing a perfect balance to hearty dishes.
The fresh herbs and citrus notes make it an elegant yet simple side that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Greek Tomato Rice Pilaf
Greek tomato rice pilaf offers a savory twist on traditional pilaf by incorporating ripe tomatoes and classic Mediterranean flavors.
The combination of tomatoes, herbs, and a touch of olive oil creates a comforting and satisfying dish that works well as a side or even a light vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
- Long grain or basmati rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely diced
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add rice and toast for a few minutes.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and oregano.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Lower heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
The rich, tangy tomato base gives this pilaf a deep, comforting flavor while the herbs add freshness.
It’s a versatile recipe that complements grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can be enjoyed on its own for a hearty meal.
Greek Orzo Rice Pilaf
Greek orzo rice pilaf is a delightful dish combining tender rice with toasted orzo pasta for a unique texture and rich flavor.
The pilaf is lightly seasoned with lemon and fresh herbs, making it an ideal side to accompany seafood, chicken, or vegetable dishes.
It’s a simple yet elegant take on a traditional Greek favorite.
Ingredients:
- Long grain white rice
- Orzo pasta
- Olive oil
- Onion, chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh dill and mint, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté orzo until golden brown.
- Add onion and cook until soft.
- Stir in rice and toast for a minute.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice and orzo are cooked.
- Stir in lemon juice, fresh dill, and mint just before serving.
This pilaf’s combination of rice and orzo creates a pleasing texture contrast, enhanced by the bright citrus and fragrant herbs.
It’s a wonderfully versatile dish that brightens any meal with authentic Greek flavors.
Greek Spinach Rice Pilaf
Greek spinach rice pilaf is a nutritious and flavorful dish that blends tender spinach with fragrant rice and Mediterranean herbs.
This pilaf is both wholesome and vibrant, making it a perfect side or a light vegetarian main.
The subtle earthiness of the spinach combined with fresh herbs adds depth and freshness to every bite.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Lemon juice
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add rice and toast lightly for a couple of minutes.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle fresh herbs before serving.
This spinach rice pilaf is a delightful balance of fresh, earthy flavors and comforting textures.
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish and adds a vibrant touch to any meal.
Greek Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf
Greek lemon herb rice pilaf is a simple yet elegant side dish bursting with bright citrus and fragrant herbs.
This pilaf uses a combination of lemon zest, juice, and fresh herbs to infuse the rice with lively, fresh flavors that complement any Mediterranean-inspired entrée.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh oregano and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add rice and toast lightly.
- Pour in broth, lemon juice, and zest; season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
- Stir in chopped herbs before serving.
This lemon herb pilaf is bright, fragrant, and perfectly balanced, making it an ideal companion to grilled seafood, roasted chicken, or vegetable dishes.
It’s a fresh take on classic rice pilaf with unmistakable Greek flair.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Pine Nuts
Greek rice pilaf with pine nuts is a rich and textured side dish that adds a delightful crunch and buttery flavor from toasted pine nuts.
Combined with aromatic herbs and lemon, this pilaf is both satisfying and elegant, perfect for enhancing your Mediterranean meals.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Pine nuts
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely diced
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Lemon juice
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toast pine nuts lightly in a dry pan until golden; set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add rice and toast for a few minutes.
- Pour in broth and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer covered until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Stir in toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf combines nutty crunch with fresh, bright flavors, creating a well-rounded dish that complements grilled meats, seafood, or vegetable mains.
The pine nuts add an extra layer of richness that makes this recipe truly special.
Greek Tomato Lemon Rice Pilaf
Greek tomato lemon rice pilaf combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the rich sweetness of tomatoes, creating a vibrant and flavorful side dish.
This pilaf is a great way to bring fresh Mediterranean tastes to your table, making it a perfect accompaniment for grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh tomatoes, diced (or canned diced tomatoes)
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add rice and toast lightly for a few minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and cook until slightly softened.
- Pour in broth, lemon juice, and zest, then season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This pilaf delivers a beautiful balance of acidity and sweetness, enhanced by the freshness of lemon and herbs.
It’s a delicious and colorful addition to any meal.
Greek Orzo and Rice Pilaf
Greek orzo and rice pilaf is a delicious combination of two grains, giving the dish a pleasant variety of textures.
The nutty, toasted orzo pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, while fresh herbs and lemon add brightness and flavor.
It’s a versatile side that works well alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Orzo pasta
- Olive oil
- Onion, chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil and toast the orzo in a saucepan until golden.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Stir in rice and toast briefly.
- Add broth and bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until rice and orzo are tender and liquid absorbed.
- Stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf’s combination of toasted orzo and rice creates a delightful texture, while lemon and herbs bring a fresh, vibrant flavor that elevates any meal.
Greek Herb and Spinach Rice Pilaf
Greek herb and spinach rice pilaf is a healthy and flavorful side dish that combines tender spinach leaves with aromatic herbs and fluffy rice.
It’s a nutrient-packed option that adds color and freshness to your plate, making it perfect for vegetarian meals or as a complement to grilled dishes.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh dill, parsley, and mint, chopped
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add rice and toast lightly.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
- Mix in lemon juice and fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf combines fresh, vibrant greens with fragrant herbs and lemon, creating a delicious and wholesome dish that brightens up any meal.
Greek Orzo Lemon Pilaf
Greek orzo lemon pilaf is a wonderfully fragrant dish where nutty toasted orzo pasta is cooked together with rice, fresh lemon juice, and herbs.
The bright citrus notes complement the rich aroma of the toasted orzo, making it a perfect side for grilled seafood or chicken.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Orzo pasta
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh parsley and dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan and toast the orzo until golden.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Stir in rice and toast briefly.
- Add broth, lemon juice, and zest, then season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer until the rice and orzo are tender.
- Stir in fresh herbs just before serving.
This pilaf’s bright lemon flavor and herbal freshness make it a lively, delicious complement to many Mediterranean dishes, adding brightness and texture to your meal.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Feta and Olives
Greek rice pilaf with feta and olives is a savory, Mediterranean-inspired side that blends creamy feta cheese and briny olives with fluffy rice.
It’s a flavorful dish that adds a salty, tangy kick and works perfectly alongside grilled meats or vegetable dishes.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Kalamata olives, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh oregano and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add rice and toast lightly.
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked.
- Fold in olives, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf balances creamy, salty, and herbaceous flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing side that adds a distinctive Greek touch to any meal.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Pine Nuts and Raisins
Greek rice pilaf with pine nuts and raisins offers a delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors, creating a balanced and interesting side dish.
The toasted pine nuts add crunch, while the raisins provide a burst of sweetness, making this pilaf a unique and tasty addition to your table.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Pine nuts
- Raisins
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toast pine nuts in a dry pan until golden, set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add rice and toast for a couple of minutes.
- Stir in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until rice is tender.
- Stir in toasted pine nuts, raisins, and fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf’s combination of sweet raisins, crunchy pine nuts, and fresh herbs makes for a complex and satisfying side dish with authentic Greek flair.
Greek Lemon Dill Rice Pilaf
Greek lemon dill rice pilaf is a refreshing and aromatic side dish that brings together the bright zest of lemon and the fresh, slightly tangy flavor of dill.
This pilaf pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken, adding a vibrant note to your meal.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add rice and toast briefly.
- Pour in broth, lemon juice, and zest; season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Stir in fresh dill just before serving.
This pilaf’s bright lemon and herbal dill flavors make it a delightful and light accompaniment, perfect for enhancing any Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Greek Orzo and Spinach Pilaf
Greek orzo and spinach pilaf combines tender orzo pasta and fresh spinach for a nutritious, flavorful dish.
Lightly seasoned and cooked in broth, it’s a versatile side that complements seafood, poultry, or vegetarian mains beautifully.
Ingredients:
- Orzo pasta
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley and mint, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add orzo and toast until golden.
- Stir in rice and cook briefly.
- Add broth and bring to a boil.
- Add chopped spinach, cover, and simmer until rice and orzo are tender.
- Stir in fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf offers a pleasing texture contrast between rice and orzo, with the spinach adding color and nutrition, resulting in a tasty, wholesome dish.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Artichokes and Herbs
Greek rice pilaf with artichokes and herbs is a flavorful and elegant dish featuring tender rice cooked with marinated artichoke hearts and fresh Mediterranean herbs.
The artichokes add a unique, slightly tangy dimension that pairs beautifully with lemon and parsley.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley and oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add rice and toast lightly.
- Stir in chopped artichokes.
- Pour in broth and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Mix in fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf combines the delicate tang of artichokes with bright herbs and lemon, creating a sophisticated side dish that elevates any Mediterranean meal.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Capers and Olives
Greek rice pilaf with capers and olives brings a delightful briny kick to fluffy, tender rice.
The combination of salty olives and tangy capers creates a vibrant Mediterranean flavor profile, perfect as a side dish for grilled seafood or roasted chicken.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- Capers, rinsed
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Add rice and lightly toast for a few minutes.
- Stir in olives and capers.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This pilaf’s bold briny flavors make it a fantastic accompaniment to Mediterranean mains, adding complexity and brightness to your plate.
Greek Saffron Rice Pilaf
Greek saffron rice pilaf offers a luxurious twist on traditional pilaf, with the golden hue and delicate aroma of saffron adding an elegant touch.
This aromatic dish pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, seafood, or vegetable dishes.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- A pinch of saffron threads, soaked in warm water
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add rice and toast lightly.
- Pour in broth and saffron-infused water; season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Stir in fresh herbs before serving.
This saffron rice pilaf’s vibrant color and subtle floral notes bring sophistication and rich Mediterranean flavor to any meal.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Carrots and Peas
Greek rice pilaf with carrots and peas is a colorful, hearty side dish that adds sweetness and texture to your meal.
The vegetables complement the fluffy rice beautifully, and the dish is seasoned with fresh herbs to keep it light and fresh.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Carrots, diced
- Peas (fresh or frozen)
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, and carrots until tender.
- Add rice and toast for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is nearly cooked.
- Stir in peas, cover again, and cook until peas are tender and rice is done.
- Mix in fresh herbs before serving.
This vegetable-packed pilaf is a vibrant and nutritious side that brightens any Greek-inspired meal with sweetness, color, and fresh flavors.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Lemon and Garlic
Greek rice pilaf with lemon and garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish where the brightness of lemon juice and the warmth of garlic enhance the fluffy rice.
This versatile side pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables, adding a fresh and savory touch.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant and soft.
- Add rice and toast lightly for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in broth, lemon juice, and zest; season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in fresh parsley just before serving.
This pilaf bursts with bright lemon flavor balanced by the mellow garlic and fresh herbs, making it a delightful and refreshing accompaniment to any meal.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Tomatoes and Feta
Greek rice pilaf with tomatoes and feta is a savory and satisfying dish that combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the creamy tang of feta cheese.
It’s a hearty side perfect for complementing Mediterranean-inspired mains or even enjoyed as a light vegetarian meal.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh tomatoes, diced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh oregano and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add rice and lightly toast.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and cook briefly.
- Pour in broth; season with salt and pepper, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender.
- Fold in crumbled feta and fresh herbs before serving.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and creamy feta gives this pilaf a rich, layered flavor that enhances any Mediterranean dish beautifully.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Zucchini and Mint
Greek rice pilaf with zucchini and mint is a light and fresh side dish featuring tender sautéed zucchini and fragrant mint leaves.
The mild sweetness of zucchini pairs perfectly with the refreshing herbal notes, creating a balanced and flavorful pilaf.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Zucchini, diced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh mint and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add zucchini and cook until just tender.
- Stir in rice and toast briefly.
- Pour in broth; season with salt and pepper, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked.
- Stir in fresh mint and parsley before serving.
This pilaf is bright and herbaceous with a subtle sweetness from the zucchini, making it a refreshing complement to grilled or roasted dishes.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Caramelized Onions
Greek rice pilaf with caramelized onions offers a deep, sweet, and savory flavor profile that elevates simple rice to a comforting and aromatic dish.
The rich caramelized onions bring warmth and depth, making it an excellent side for roasted meats or vegetable dishes.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onions, thinly sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan and slowly caramelize the onions over medium-low heat until golden brown and sweet.
- Add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Stir in rice and toast lightly.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This pilaf is rich and flavorful, with the sweet caramelized onions adding a luxurious touch to any Mediterranean meal.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Roasted Red Peppers
Greek rice pilaf with roasted red peppers brings a smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the classic pilaf.
The roasted peppers add depth and a subtle charred flavor that beautifully complements the fluffy rice and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Roasted red peppers, chopped
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh basil and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add rice and toast lightly.
- Stir in chopped roasted red peppers.
- Pour in broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Stir in fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf’s smoky sweetness and fresh herbaceous notes make it a flavorful and colorful side dish perfect for grilled or roasted dishes.
Greek Rice Pilaf with Pine Nuts and Lemon
Greek rice pilaf with pine nuts and lemon is a fragrant and textured dish where crunchy toasted pine nuts complement the bright citrus notes of lemon.
This pilaf is a delightful balance of nutty, fresh, and savory flavors, ideal alongside fish or poultry.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Pine nuts
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toast pine nuts in a dry pan until golden; set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Add rice and toast lightly.
- Pour in broth, lemon juice, and zest; season with salt and pepper.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
- Stir in toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs before serving.
This pilaf’s combination of crunchy pine nuts and bright lemon makes it a vibrant and satisfying side that brings authentic Greek flavors to your table.
Conclusion
With more than 25 Greek rice pilaf recipes at your fingertips, you have a treasure trove of flavors and textures to explore. From simple, herb-infused classics to more elaborate combinations featuring vegetables, nuts, and cheese, these recipes prove that rice pilaf is far from ordinary. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a festive Mediterranean feast, these pilafs add color, nutrition, and authentic taste to your menu. Dive into this collection, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and let Greek rice pilaf elevate your cooking to new heights.