If you’re looking for an easy, unfussy side dish that feels fresh but comforting, this Lemon Dill Rice Salad with Red Onion is it. Made with fluffy cooked rice, plenty of lemon zest, fresh dill, and just enough red onion for bite, this recipe is light, herby, and endlessly adaptable.
It’s the kind of dish that works just as well alongside grilled chicken or fish as it does packed into lunch containers the next day. Best of all, it comes together quickly and uses pantry staples—making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients
- Perfect for leftover rice
- Bright, fresh flavors without being heavy
- Naturally dairy-free and easily adaptable
- Delicious warm, room temperature, or cold
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked white rice (cooled slightly)
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional additions:
- A pinch of sugar or honey (to balance acidity)
- Crumbled feta
- Chopped cucumber
- Cooked chickpeas or white beans
How to Make Lemon Dill Rice Salad
1. Prepare the Rice
Start with freshly cooked rice or leftover rice that’s been fluffed and cooled slightly. Warm rice absorbs flavor beautifully, but it shouldn’t be hot.
2. Add the Flavor
Transfer the rice to a large serving bowl. Sprinkle over the lemon zest, drizzle in the lemon juice and olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Fold in Herbs and Onion
Add the diced red onion and fresh dill. Gently fold everything together using a spoon or spatula until evenly combined.
4. Taste and Adjust
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—more lemon for brightness, more salt for balance, or a touch of sweetness if desired.
5. Serve
Serve immediately or let rest for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Ideas
- Alongside grilled salmon, chicken, or lamb
- As part of a spring or summer buffet
- Stuffed into lettuce cups
- Served cold as a picnic or potluck side
Make It Your Own
- Add protein: Toss in flaked salmon or shredded rotisserie chicken
- Make it creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo
- Switch the grain: Use basmati, jasmine, or even brown rice
- Extra crunch: Add cucumber, celery, or toasted pine nuts
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and add a splash of lemon juice to refresh the flavor.
Easy Herb Rice Salad with Red Onion
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 SERVINGS 1x
Description
This easy herb rice salad with red onion is light, fresh, and perfect for spring. Made with fluffy rice, lemon zest, olive oil, and fresh dill, it’s a simple side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled salmon or chicken.
Ingredients
Ingredients
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3 cups cooked white rice (slightly cooled)
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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Zest of 1 lemon
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¼ cup finely diced red onion
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¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
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Crumbled feta cheese
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Chopped cucumber
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Grilled salmon or chicken for serving
Instructions
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Place the cooked rice in a large serving bowl and gently fluff with a fork.
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Add lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the rice.
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Sprinkle in the diced red onion and fresh dill.
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Gently fold everything together until evenly combined.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
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This rice salad can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled.
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Perfect as a side dish or topped with grilled salmon for a complete meal.
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Works well with jasmine, basmati, or long-grain white rice.
- Prep Time: 10 MINS
- Cook Time: 15 MINUTES
- Category: SIDE DISH | SALAD
- Cuisine: MEDITERRANEAN INSPIRED
FAQ SECTION (SEO-Optimized)
Can I make herb rice salad ahead of time?
Yes. This herb rice salad is perfect for making ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir and add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.
Is this rice salad served warm or cold?
It can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold. Slightly warm rice absorbs the lemon and herbs beautifully, while chilled rice makes it perfect for picnics and meal prep.
What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice work best. Brown rice can also be used, though the texture will be slightly heartier.
Can I add protein to this rice salad?
Absolutely. This rice salad pairs well with grilled salmon, chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Can I substitute other herbs for dill?
Yes. Fresh parsley, chives, or a mix of soft herbs work well if you don’t have dill on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Dill Rice Salad with Red Onion is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s bright, fresh, and comforting all at once—exactly the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.
If you love easy, seasonal sides that feel both classic and fresh, this one deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
