Mediterranean Lemon Rice and Cabbage Recipe

This Mediterranean lemon rice with cabbage is one of my favorite side dishes when I want something bright, flavorful, and comforting. I love how the citrusy lemon flavor blends with tender rice, sweet shallots, and lightly sautéed cabbage. It’s fresh yet hearty, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even vegetarian mains.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it turns simple ingredients into something special. The lemon adds a refreshing tang, the herbs bring a touch of Mediterranean flavor, and the cabbage adds both texture and nourishment. I enjoy that it’s versatile—it can be a side dish or a light main course. Plus, it’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining.

Ingredients

▢3 tablespoons butter
▢2 shallots or spring onions (or green onions)
▢2 lemons zested and sliced
▢2 cups rice long grain
▢4 cups hot chicken stock
▢2 bay leaves
▢2 sprigs fresh parsley
▢1/2 head cabbage thinly sliced
▢2 tablespoons olive oil
▢salt and pepper to taste

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. I add the shallots and cook until softened and fragrant.
2. I stir in the rice, coating it in the butter and shallots for about 1–2 minutes.
3. I pour in the hot chicken stock, add the bay leaves, parsley sprigs, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. While the rice cooks, I heat the olive oil in a skillet and sauté the sliced cabbage until just tender, seasoning it with a little salt and pepper.
5. When the rice is done, I remove the bay leaves and parsley sprigs, then fluff it with a fork.
6. I stir in the sautéed cabbage and top the rice with the lemon slices before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes me 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, so the total time is about 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add toasted pine nuts or almonds for a bit of crunch. If I want extra herbs, I mix in fresh dill or mint at the end. For a vegetarian version, I swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock. I also like adding a handful of chickpeas or lentils to make it more filling.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the rice gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it fluffy. The microwave works as well, though I prefer the stovetop to maintain the best texture. I don’t recommend freezing since the cabbage can become watery.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, I can use brown rice, but I increase the cooking time and liquid slightly.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, I just use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

What kind of cabbage works best?

I usually use green cabbage, but savoy or napa cabbage also work well.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Yes, I like adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal.

How do I keep the rice fluffy?

I let it rest covered for a few minutes after cooking, then fluff it gently with a fork.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemons give the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat before serving.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Parsley, dill, mint, and oregano all complement the lemon flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, I sometimes mix in peas, carrots, or spinach along with the cabbage.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the stock is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

I love how this Mediterranean lemon rice with cabbage is simple yet full of flavor. The lemon and herbs brighten the dish, while the cabbage adds substance and texture. It’s a versatile recipe I turn to often, whether as a fresh side dish or a light and satisfying main course.

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