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Lemon Rice with Orzo

Fluffy basmati or jasmine rice with a little orzo and lemon makes a great side dish
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups basmati or jasmine rice
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3/4 cup onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 large lemons, zested and juiced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Rinse rice under running water until it runs clear. Let soak in fresh water for 15 minutes. Drain
  • Meanwhile, in a large saucepan over medium-high heat, add 3 tbsp olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add onions and cook for 3 minutes. Add garlic and orzo and stir until orzo becomes golden. Stir in rice.
  • Add juice of two lemons and broth. Bring to a rolling boil, then turn heat to low. Cover with a lid and cook 15 minutes. DO NOT UNCOVER. Remove from heat and let steam. Do not disturb for 10 minutes.
  • Uncover rice and stir in parsley dill and lemon zest. Serve.

Notes

  • Do not skip the rinse and soak step for the rice.  Removing the extra starch leaves you with perfect grains of rice--not a sticky clump.