Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup Lentils (green or brown); 2 cups Vegetable broth or water; 2 Carrots, diced; 1 Bell pepper, diced; 1 Zucchini, diced; 1 Red onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Cumin; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love how a simple combination of roasted vegetables and lentils can create such a vibrant and satisfying dish! This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is my go-to for a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The contrast of the warm, crispy veggies against the perfectly cooked lentils creates a delightful texture in every bite. I can effortlessly customize this recipe based on what I have in the fridge, making it a fabulous choice for meal prep or a cozy dinner any night of the week.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:37:19.958Z

When I first created this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, I was looking for a way to use up leftover vegetables from my fridge. The roasting brings out a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the earthy lentils. I discovered that using a variety of veggies not only adds color but also enhances the nutritional profile of the bowl.

One key detail I've learned along the way is to season the veggies well before roasting. This infuses them with flavor and keeps the dish interesting. Plus, the addition of a tangy dressing ties everything together beautifully, turning this dish into a delightful meal that I can't resist.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with plant-based protein and fiber
Full of vibrant flavors from roasted veggies
Easily customizable with whatever veggies you have on hand

      

Tips for Perfect Lentils

When cooking lentils, it's crucial to rinse them under cold water before boiling to remove any debris and prevent them from becoming too starchy. This step not only improves the texture but also enhances their flavor. Ensure you keep the lentils at a gentle simmer to avoid them breaking apart. Aim for a cooking time of about 20 minutes, but start checking for doneness at 15 minutes; they should be tender yet slightly al dente for the best bite in your grain bowl.

If you're looking to add variety, consider experimenting with different types of lentils. For instance, red lentils cook faster and tend to break down more, creating a creamier base. If you prefer firmer lentils, stick with green or brown varieties. Always taste as you cook to achieve your desired texture—this is a key step I recommend not skipping.

Mastering Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds wonderful depth to this grain bowl. To achieve perfectly caramelized veggies, make sure they are cut into uniform pieces, which ensures even cooking. Toss them in olive oil generously; a good rule of thumb is about one tablespoon of oil per cup of chopped vegetables. This helps achieve that desirable golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside tender. Watch closely while roasting; you want them to be tender and slightly crisp, typically around 20-25 minutes in the oven at 425°F.

For added dimension, you can vary the seasoning based on your taste preferences. Relying on garlic powder or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the flavor profile even further. If you’re cooking for a crowd, feel free to scale the recipe up; just use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, allowing each piece to roast evenly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup Lentils (green or brown)
2 cups Vegetable broth or water
2 Carrots, diced
1 Bell pepper, diced
1 Zucchini, diced
1 Red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Paprika
1 teaspoon Cumin
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure to wash and chop all your vegetables before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Here’s how to put together your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Lentils

In a pot, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until tender.

Roast the Vegetables

While the lentils are cooking, toss the diced carrots, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until they are golden and tender.

Assemble the Bowl

Once the lentils and veggies are ready, spoon the lentils into bowls and top with the roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your hearty and colorful Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables or grains like quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can store the components separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Keep the lentils in an airtight container for up to five days, while the roasted vegetables can last about four days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before refrigerating to avoid condensation and sogginess.

If you would like to prepare this dish ahead of time, consider roasting the vegetables and cooking the lentils a day in advance. Just reheat the veggies in a hot oven for a few minutes before serving to regain that crispy texture. This makes it incredibly easy to assemble your bowls quickly during the week.

Serving Suggestions

This grain bowl is highly versatile, and you can serve it as a substantial main dish or as a side. I love adding a dollop of creamy dressing, like tahini or a simple vinaigrette, which complements the earthy flavors of the lentils and vegetables beautifully. For an extra protein boost, consider topping it with a poached or fried egg.

To convert your grain bowl into a heartier meal, you could also serve it over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or farro for additional texture and nutrients. Consider adding some avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for that extra touch of creaminess and richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the bowl.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you prefer, such as broccoli, sweet potatoes, or asparagus.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the vegetables and lentils in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is entirely vegan and packed with plant-based goodness.