Rice Soup With Lemon
A light and flavorful rice soup infused with lemon, perfect for a comforting, low-calorie meal that highlights fresh herbs and citrus notes. Suitable for soothing, healthy dining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add chicken broth and water to a 5-quart pot and bring to a boil.
- Add rice, chopped green onions, dried parsley, and grated lemon rind to the boiling broth.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding shredded rotisserie chicken or other cooked proteins. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try substituting the long grain white rice with wild rice or quinoa. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste; if you have fresh parsley, use it instead of dried for a brighter flavor. Adjust the lemon juice to taste for desired acidity.
Serving Suggestions
This rice soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a light meal. For a more filling option, serve it alongside Lemon Dill Chicken Saute. Garnish each bowl with additional chopped green onions and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a little extra broth or water to maintain the soup's consistency, as rice tends to absorb liquid. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Soup With Lemon contains roughly 1095 calories, with 33g protein, 234g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (127% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 21g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time—approximately 40-45 minutes—until tender. You may need to adjust the water ratio as well, so check the package instructions for best results.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
While the soup can be frozen, it's best to do so without the lemon juice added. Freeze the cooled soup in airtight containers for up to three months. When reheating, add fresh lemon juice for bright flavor.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use water accordingly. You can also add more vegetables, such as carrots or peas, for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).