Savory Greek Tomato Rice is a vibrant Mediterranean side dish made with long-grain rice, fresh ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. Cooked in a rich broth, this dish is tender, flavorful, and perfect as a side or light main course.

Name: Savory Greek Tomato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth; ¼ cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Savory Greek Tomato Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Mediterranean flavors from tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs
Simple ingredients and easy steps make it beginner-friendly
Works as a side dish or a vegetarian main
Naturally dairy-free and can be made vegan with vegetable broth
Perfectly fluffy and aromatic rice every time

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups long-grain rice
4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

directions

Rinse rice: Rinse long-grain rice under cold water until water runs clear. Drain well.
Heat oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté aromatics: Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add tomatoes: Stir in diced tomatoes and cook 5–7 minutes until softened and juicy.
Season and add rice: Add rinsed rice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat rice with tomato mixture.
Add broth: Pour in vegetable or chicken broth. Stir gently to combine.
Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Steam: Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
Fluff and garnish: Fluff rice with a fork. Garnish with parsley and drizzle with lemon juice if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens
Mix in chickpeas or white beans for more protein
Use basmati or jasmine rice for a slightly different flavor and texture
Add olives or capers for a briny twist
Top with crumbled feta (or vegan feta) for a Greek-inspired finish

storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, or microwave until hot
Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating

FAQs

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine works best for fluffy grains.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, canned diced tomatoes work well when fresh tomatoes aren’t available.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Why rinse the rice?

Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing clumping and ensuring fluffy rice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and is great for meal prep.

What goes well with Greek tomato rice?

It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, tofu, or roasted meats.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but increase cooking time and broth to accommodate brown rice.

How do I keep the rice from sticking?

Make sure to use enough oil, rinse rice thoroughly, and avoid stirring while it simmers.

Can I add spice?

Yes, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Do I have to add lemon juice?

It’s optional, but adds a fresh, bright finish that enhances the flavors.

Conclusion

Savory Greek Tomato Rice is a delicious, comforting side dish that celebrates the fresh, bold flavors of the Mediterranean. With tender rice, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, it’s versatile, nourishing, and easy to make. Serve it alongside your favorite protein or enjoy it as a light vegetarian main—it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.