May 19, 2024

Baked Lemon Dill Rice

Elevate your meals with Lemon Dill Rice Baked in the Oven! This fragrant and flavorful dish combines the zest of lemon with the freshness of dill, creating a delicious side that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. Ideal for those who love vibrant flavors, this recipe offers a simple yet impressive way to enjoy rice.

Background of Lemon Dill Rice
Why You’ll Love Baked Lemon Dill Rice
What Is In Baked Lemon Dill Rice Recipe?
Key Ingredients
Usage And Serving Suggestions
Storage and Leftovers
How To Make This Recipe
Have It Your Way!
Nutritional Facts
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Baked Lemon Dill Rice

Lemon Dill Rice being served in a white bowl vertical

Background of Lemon Dill Rice

Lemon Dill Rice finds its roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where the use of fresh herbs and citrus is prevalent. The combination of lemon and dill is a classic pairing, often used to enhance the flavors of fish, poultry, and grains. This dish has evolved through various culinary traditions, integrating influences from Greek and Middle Eastern cooking. Baked rice dishes have been a staple in these regions, providing a convenient and flavorful method of cooking rice to perfection.

In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, rice is more than just a staple; it is a symbol of hospitality and abundance. Lemon and dill, both abundant in these regions, are celebrated for their fresh, aromatic qualities. Dill is often associated with good health and prosperity, while lemon is valued for its refreshing and cleansing properties. This dish is often prepared for family gatherings and festive occasions, signifying unity and shared enjoyment of good food.

Throughout history, lemon and dill have been prized for their medicinal and culinary properties. Dill, known for its digestive benefits, and lemon, rich in vitamin C, have been used to create dishes that are both healthy and flavorful. The method of baking rice ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both aromatic and satisfying. Today, Lemon Dill Rice remains a popular choice for its bright, refreshing taste and versatility, easily fitting into modern, health-conscious diets.

Why You’ll Love Baked Lemon Dill Rice

Bright and Refreshing Flavor: The combination of lemon and dill provides a zesty and herbaceous taste.
Easy to Prepare: A simple recipe that requires minimal effort and ingredients.
Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Can be made ahead and reheated for quick meals.

What Is In Baked Lemon Dill Rice Recipe?

Lemon Dill Rice Baked in the Oven is a delightful dish that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a delicious side dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Rice: The foundation of the dish, rice provides a hearty and comforting base for the lemon and dill flavors to shine.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon zest and juice infuse the rice with bright citrusy notes, adding a refreshing tanginess to each bite.
Fresh Dill: Fragrant and herbaceous, fresh dill brings a burst of flavor to the dish, complementing the citrusy undertones of the lemon.
Vegetable Stock (optional): Vegetable stock adds depth and richness to the rice, enhancing its overall flavor profile. You can use homemade or store-bought vegetable stock for convenience.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil not only adds richness to the dish but also helps to keep the rice moist and prevents it from sticking to the baking dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic lends a savory depth to the rice, infusing it with aromatic flavor as it bakes in the oven.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning ingredients that help to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Lima Beans: For an added boost of protein and texture, incorporate cooked lima beans into the dish. Lima beans, also known as butter beans, have a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the lemon and dill.

Key Ingredients

Rice: The base of the dish, absorbing the flavors of the lemon and dill.
Lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that elevates the dish.
Dill: Provides a fresh, herbaceous note.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps to cook the garlic to perfection.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Usage And Serving Suggestions

To prepare Lemon Dill Rice Baked in the Oven, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (roughly 200°C). Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then combine it in a baking dish with the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped dill, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour vegetable stock over the mixture, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Once baked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with additional fresh dill and lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Serve the Lemon Dill Rice alongside your favorite main dishes, such as grilled fish, roasted chicken, or sautéed vegetables, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Leftovers

Lemon Dill Rice Baked in the Oven can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or place the rice in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated to your liking. Enjoy the leftovers as a quick and tasty side dish for busy weeknight dinners or pack them for lunch the next day.

How To Make This Recipe

Preheat the oven to 400 F (200 C)

Wash the rice of excess starch, and soak in cold water for 20-30 minutes. After 30 minutes, drain the water.

In a 9″x13″ baking dish, add Olive oil and soaked rice. Combine gently to coat the rice in oil. Add the salt, cumin, turmeric powder, green chilies, onions, lima beans, lemon zest, and only half of the dill to the baking dish along with the 3 cups of water and gently combine.

Add Extra virgin olive oil to baking dish

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake in the oven at 400 F for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Removing Foil after 30 minutes of baking

Remove from the oven, add remaining dill and juice of half a lemon.

Fluff the rice and enjoy 🙂

Have It Your Way!

Customize your Baked Lemon Dill Rice with these creative adaptations:

Add Vegetables: Include peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Use Different Herbs: Try parsley or mint for a different herbaceous flavor.
Include Protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
Adjust Citrus: Increase or decrease the amount of lemon based on your preference.

Nutritional Facts

Lemon Dill Rice Baked in the Oven offers numerous health benefits, including:

Rich in Vitamins: Lemon and dill provide vitamins C and A.
Low in Fat: Olive oil is a healthy fat, used sparingly.
Fiber-Packed: Rice is a good source of dietary fiber.
Antioxidants: Lemon contains antioxidants that support overall health.

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