Mediterranean Lemon Herb Rice with Chickpeas & Yogurt Drizzle
This Lemon Herb Rice with Chickpeas is a fragrant Mediterranean dish made with fluffy rice, tender chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a creamy garlic-lemon yogurt drizzle. It’s non-spicy, comforting, and works beautifully as a main or side.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Lemon Herb Rice
1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp lemon zest
Salt to taste
Chickpeas
1 cup boiled chickpeas
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt to taste
Yogurt Drizzle
½ cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, grated
Salt to taste
1 tbsp water (optional)
Herbs & Finish
3 tbsp fresh parsley, dill, or mint, chopped
1 tbsp toasted pine nuts or almonds
Optional: cucumber slices
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Rinse rice well. Cook with water and salt until fluffy. Stir in olive oil and lemon zest.
2. Season Chickpeas
Warm chickpeas in a pan with cumin and salt for 3–4 minutes.
3. Prepare Yogurt Drizzle
Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and water until pourable.
4. Assemble
Combine rice and chickpeas gently. Transfer to serving dish.
5. Finish
Drizzle yogurt sauce, sprinkle herbs and nuts. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Add grilled chicken, fish, or halloumi
Replace rice with bulgur or quinoa
Make vegan using tahini sauce
Excellent for meal prep
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s completely mild.
Q: Can I eat it cold?
Yes, it tastes great chilled too.
Q: Is it filling?
Yes—balanced carbs, protein, and fats.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: ~15 g
Carbohydrates: ~48 g
Fiber: ~7 g
Fat: ~10 g