Creamy Lemon Parmesan Rice Recipe

Name: Creamy Lemon Parmesan Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 quarts water; 2 cups arborio rice; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic; 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/3 cup butter, room temperature; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (can use more or use about 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest (you can add in a bit more if desired); salt and black pepper; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Servings: persons

4 quarts water
2 cups arborio rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup butter, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon dried basil (can use more or use about 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest (you can add in a bit more if desired)
salt and black pepper
1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1
Heat about 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large heavy pot.
2
Add in the onion and garlic; saute for about 3 minutes.
3
Add in 4 quarts water and bring to a boil over high heat.
4
Add in the rice; boil until the rice is JUST tender (about 15-16 minutes; drain and RESERVE 1/2 cup cooking liquid.
5
In a medium bowl mix together the chopped parsley, softened butter, basil, lemon juice and lemon zest.
6
Add the hot rice to the mixture; stir to melt butter.
7
Add in reserved 1/2 cup cooking liquid and grated parmesan cheese; stir well to combine.
8
Season with salt and pepper.
9
Sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese if desired.

604

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 4 quarts water, 2 cups arborio rice, 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic, and more.

Yes, Creamy Lemon Parmesan Rice falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Rice

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions