Lemon Herb Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white rice (long grain or basmati)
• 1 3/4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice
   Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

2. Combine Ingredients
   In your 1.5 qt saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water (or chicken broth), butter, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to mix.

3. Cook the Rice
   Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with the lid, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed.

4. Rest the Rice
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and become fluffy.

5. Add Lemon and Herbs
   Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and dried thyme if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

6. Serve
   Transfer the rice to a serving dish or serve directly from the saucepan. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon slices if desired.

Tips:

• For added flavor, sauté the rice in the butter for 2 minutes before adding water or broth.
• To make it a complete meal, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy this light and zesty side dish!