Greek Rice La Kefalonitissa

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched island of Kefalonia with this Greek Rice La Kefalonitissa, a vibrant and aromatic dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Featuring tender long-grain rice simmered in a fragrant medley of olive oil, fresh garlic, onion, zucchini, and ripe roma tomatoes, this recipe is elevated with the brightness of fresh dill, parsley, and zesty lemon. The addition of vegetable broth infuses the rice with a deep, savory flavor, while the optional crumbled feta cheese garnish provides a creamy, tangy finish. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a light vegetarian main course, this dish is ready in just 45 minutes and highlights wholesome ingredients and classic Greek cooking techniques. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a simple family meal, this recipe brings the essence of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain rice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 2 pieces roma tomatoes, finely chopped
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 0.25 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, being cautious not to burn it.

Step 5

Add the diced zucchini and sauté for 5-6 minutes until it starts to soften.

Step 6

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to break down.

Step 7

Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat it in the vegetable mixture and olive oil.

Step 8

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 9

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.

Step 10

Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped dill, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Step 11

Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 12

Fluff the rice with a fork and allow it to sit, covered, for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 13

Transfer the rice to a serving dish and garnish with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.

Step 14

Serve warm, either as a side dish or a light main course.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1454.6 grams (1454.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1299

Total Fat 62.80g	81%
Saturated Fat 17.20g	86%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.10g
Cholesterol 53mg	18%
Sodium 4708mg	205%
Total Carbohydrate 152.40g	55%
Dietary Fiber 14.80g	53%
Total Sugars 21.00g
Protein 34.00g	68%

Vitamin D 26IU	128%
Calcium 539mg	41%
Iron 10mg	54%
Potassium 2263mg	48%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.1%

Protein: 10.4%

Carbs: 46.5%