A delightful Greek-inspired rice dish with a zesty lemon flavor, creamy feta, and aromatic herbs.
Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
Using extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the dish.
Add the chopped onion, oregano, minced garlic, and black pepper to the saucepan. Cook while stirring until the onion is translucent.
Stirring constantly prevents the garlic from burning, which can make it bitter.
Stir in the rice and cook for a few minutes to toast it slightly.
Toasting the rice adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
Pour in the chicken broth and the juice of one lemon. Bring to a boil.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Avoid lifting the lid too often to ensure even cooking.
Remove the saucepan from heat and gently stir in the feta cheese and kalamata olives.
Adding the feta cheese off the heat prevents it from melting completely, maintaining its texture.
Season with salt to taste and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with additional lemon juice or fresh herbs.
Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill adds a vibrant touch.