Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 cups cooked quinoa; Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley, cilantro); Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love how vibrant and nutritious this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl turned out! Each ingredient comes together beautifully, creating a balance of flavors and textures. The smokiness of the roasted vegetables combined with the earthy lentils makes for a satisfying meal. Prep time is short, and it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing me to enjoy it throughout the week. Every bite feels refreshing and wholesome, making this one of my go-to recipes for busy days.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:34:13.975Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was surprised by how easy it was to roast the vegetables alongside cooking the lentils. The technique of roasting not only brings out their natural sweetness but also adds a delightful depth of flavor. I learned that using a high heat for roasting yields the best results—crisp edges and tender interiors.

This bowl has become a weekly staple in my kitchen. I love adding a handful of fresh herbs before serving, which elevates the flavors even more. The balance of protein from the lentils and fiber from the veggies makes it a perfect meal for any time of the day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A colorful medley of fresh, roasted vegetables.
Nutritious lentils that boost the protein content.
Versatile dish that can be served warm or cold.

      

Understanding Lentils and Their Benefits

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Their earthy flavor serves as a perfect foundation for this grain bowl. I prefer using green or brown lentils for their firm texture, which holds up well during cooking and adds a satisfying bite. Additionally, they digest relatively slowly, ensuring that you feel fuller for longer, making this an excellent choice for meal prep throughout the week.

When cooking lentils, it's important to monitor the cooking time closely. If overcooked, they can become mushy and lose their appealing texture. Aim for a tender but slightly al dente feel after about 20 minutes of simmering. If you find they need more liquid, a little additional vegetable broth can help, but try to avoid adding too much so that your final dish isn’t soupy.

Roasting Vegetables: Techniques and Tips

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and contributes a delightful smoky flavor to this bowl. To achieve maximum caramelization, ensure that your vegetables are cut into evenly sized pieces—about 1-inch cubes work well. Spread them out evenly on your baking sheet, allowing enough space for heat circulation; this prevents steaming and helps achieve crisp edges.

I often experiment with different seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes based on what I have on hand. Remember, if you prefer a more pronounced smoky flavor, consider adding an extra pinch of smoked paprika. If you're short on time, pre-cut vegetables from the grocery store can save you prep time while still delivering great taste.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is versatile and can be served warm right after assembly or chilled for a refreshing meal on hot days. I enjoy packing it into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week. Just be sure to layer the ingredients correctly to keep the quinoa and lentils slightly moist; the vegetables can be placed on top to prevent them from getting soggy.

For longer storage, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep the components fresh longer, store the quinoa, lentils, and vegetables in separate containers. When reheating, I recommend warming them separately to maintain texture—microwaving the grains and lentils lightly while reheating roasted vegetables in an oven for a few minutes can refresh their crispiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Bowl

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups cooked quinoa
Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley, cilantro)
Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Cook the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the lentils are cooking, chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and tender, stirring halfway through.

Assemble the Bowls

In a bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, lentils, and roasted vegetables. Top with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. This bowl is also great for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge for up to five days.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize the mixed vegetables to use whatever you have on hand. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, you might try using butternut squash or even frozen vegetables if you're in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as necessary, particularly for denser vegetables like potatoes, which may require longer roasting times.

If you're following a gluten-free diet, this recipe is already set to meet those needs, as quinoa is naturally gluten-free. However, if you prefer another grain, brown rice or farro can work as substitutes. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions specific to those grains; each has its own texture and flavor.

Adding Flavor and Texture

To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding toppings like crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast. Nuts or seeds can also provide a delightful crunch; toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds complement the dish beautifully. A drizzle of tahini or yogurt can add a creamy texture that ties all the components together.

Herbs like dill or chives can give a fresh finish to the bowls. Experimenting with different herb combinations can create new taste experiences each time you make this recipe. Don't shy away from adding a splash of balsamic glaze or hot sauce for a little kick!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to scale up for larger gatherings or meal prep. If you plan to double the amount, be sure to use a larger baking sheet for the vegetables and possibly two pots for cooking lentils and quinoa simultaneously. Just keep an eye on the roasting time as increasing the volume can sometimes require a few extra minutes in the oven.

If you're making this for a crowd, consider setting up a grain bowl bar, where diners can customize their bowls with various toppings, sauces, and crunches. This interactive element adds fun and allows everyone to tailor their dish to their liking. It’s a fantastic way to use this recipe as a base while accommodating different tastes and dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?

Yes, canned lentils are a great time-saver. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the bowl.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use brown rice, farro, or any grain you prefer as a base.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! It’s entirely plant-based and packed with nutrients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.