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 cooked lentils; 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; Tahini or lemon juice for dressing

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love preparing a Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl for a quick and nourishing meal. The blend of hearty lentils, vibrant roasted vegetables, and wholesome grains makes this dish so satisfying and delightful. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize based on what I have in the fridge. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option for the week, I find it to be packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:40:11.972Z

When I first tried making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, I was amazed at how flavorful and colorful it turned out. The secret lies in seasoning the veggies before roasting, which enhances their natural sweetness and brings out their unique textures. I experimented with different combinations of veggies and spices until I found my perfect blend!

One tip I learned is to roast the vegetables at a high temperature. This not only cooks them quickly but also gives them a wonderful caramelization that adds depth to the dish. I often pair it with a drizzle of tahini or a squeeze of lemon to elevate the flavors even more.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicious combination of roasted vegetables and protein-packed lentils
Highly customizable to suit your taste preferences
Perfect for meal prepping and easy to store for later

      

The Virtue of Lentils

Lentils are the star of this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, providing not only a fantastic source of protein but also essential nutrients like fiber and iron. Cooking them just right is key; I recommend simmering them for about 20-25 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. Rinsing them before cooking can help remove any debris and prevent them from becoming too starchy. This combination of flavor and nutrition makes lentils an excellent base for this dish.

If you're short on time, canned lentils are a great shortcut. Just be sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium. However, if you prefer a firmer texture, stick with dried lentils. Keep an eye on them while cooking; they can go from perfect to overcooked relatively quickly, especially with higher heat. In this recipe, the earthy flavor of the lentils complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables beautifully.

Roasting Vegetables to Perfection

The secret to achieving beautifully roasted vegetables lies in the oven temperature and cooking time. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) allows for optimal caramelization, which enhances the natural sugars in the veggies. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded; this maximizes their contact with the heat and helps them roast rather than steam.

Aim for a baking time of 25-30 minutes, tossing them halfway through for even cooking. Look for a rich golden color and slight charring at the edges as signs that they are perfectly done. If you prefer more characters, try adding other seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes to the mix. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as denser vegetables may require longer to become tender.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of the best aspects of this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the grains; for instance, bulgur or farro can provide different textures and flavors. If you're avoiding grains altogether, consider using cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative. You can also play around with the spice blend; adding cumin or cayenne pepper can bring a different dimension to your bowl.

In terms of toppings, fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can brighten the dish, while a sprinkle of feta or avocado can add creaminess and richness. I love to drizzle some tahini for its nutty flavor, but a simple squeeze of lemon juice can provide a refreshing zing. This customizable aspect means you can enjoy this bowl in countless ways across the week while keeping things exciting.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience:

Ingredients for Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils
2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 carrot, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Tahini or lemon juice for dressing

Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine diced red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced carrot. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer cooked lentils, quinoa or brown rice, and the roasted vegetables. Drizzle with tahini or lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Enjoy immediately for the best flavor, or refrigerate for later!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. You can also add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

Make-ahead and Storage Tips

To streamline your meal prep, you can cook the lentils and grains in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to a week. The roasted vegetables, once cooled, can also be stored in an airtight container for about 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy your bowl, simply reheat the grains and vegetables in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

If you’re planning to freeze the components, it’s best to freeze lentils and grains separately in portioned bags. However, be cautious with roasted vegetables, as they may become mushy upon thawing. For the best texture, use them fresh or refrigerated, and save the freezing for individual components.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl warm for a comforting meal. Consider adding a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness if desired. A simple green salad or some lightly sautéed greens on the side can complement this dish nicely, providing a boost of nutrition and freshness.

Experiment with various sauces and dressings, such as a yogurt-based sauce or a spicy harissa blend, to change up the flavor profile. This way, each bowl can satisfy your cravings while keeping your meals interesting throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of cooking them from scratch?

Absolutely! Canned lentils are a great time-saver. Just rinse and drain them before using.

→ How long will the leftovers keep in the fridge?

The Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl will keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! Just ensure the dressing you choose is vegan friendly.

→ What other grains can I use?

You can use farro, bulgur, or even couscous as alternatives to quinoa or brown rice.