Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, etc.); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl because it's the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that truly satisfies my cravings. The combination of roasted vegetables, hearty lentils, and whole grains creates a fulfilling meal that's packed with nutrients. It's versatile too; you can easily customize it based on what veggies you have on hand or what spices you're in the mood for. This bowl has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:13:11.839Z

When I first made this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare while still being so nourishing and fulfilling. The roasted vegetables bring a sweet, caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the earthy lentils. To make it even tastier, I added a dash of balsamic vinegar before roasting, which enhanced the overall taste beautifully.

Since then, I’ve experimented with different grains and toppings, and I've found that adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice elevates the entire dish. This bowl is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect option for both everyday meals and special occasions.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful and vibrant presentation that is sure to impress
Hearty and filling, perfect for lunch or dinner
Endless customization options to suit your taste

      

Choosing the Right Lentils

For this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, I recommend using green or brown lentils because they hold their shape well during cooking, providing texture contrasted against the creamy roasted vegetables. Red lentils can be used in a pinch, but they tend to break down and result in a mushier consistency. When cooking lentils, ensure they are rinsed to remove any debris, and be meticulous about your simmering time; overcooking can quickly turn them into a mushy consistency.

Another tip to enhance the flavor is to add aromatics to the cooking liquid. Consider adding bay leaves, garlic cloves, or even onion to the broth while the lentils simmer. This can infuse the lentils with a deeper flavor and elevate the overall taste of your grain bowl.

Perfecting Your Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that complements the earthy lentils. When preparing your mix, cut the vegetables into uniformly sized pieces—about 1-inch chunks—to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them in the oven; you're looking for golden edges and tender, yet slightly crisp textures. If you notice them browning too quickly, consider lowering the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and extending the roasting time a few minutes.

Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables or your favorites! Sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or eggplant would all make excellent additions. Just remember that denser vegetables may require an extra 5-10 minutes of roasting time. You can also toss in whole cloves of garlic for an aromatic boost—just make sure to remove them once they are soft and caramelized.

Storing and Serving Ideas

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is an excellent make-ahead meal. To store, keep the cooked lentils, roasted vegetables, and grains in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will help retain their individual textures for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat each component in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to keep everything moist.

Serving suggestions are endless; I love topping it off with sliced avocado, crumbled feta, or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness. You could also drizzle a little extra dressing before serving or even incorporate a protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it more filling. The versatility of this bowl means you can adapt it to your dietary preferences!

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, etc.)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

Feta cheese
Sliced avocado
Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro)

Instructions

Prepare the Lentils

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

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are golden and tender.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Bowls

In a bowl, layer the lentils, roasted vegetables, and cooked quinoa or brown rice. Drizzle with dressing and top with optional toppings as desired.

Enjoy!

Dig in while everything is warm for the best taste!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains based on what's available. You can also add leftover protein for an extra boost.

Variations to Try

To keep things exciting, change the dressing to experiment with different flavor profiles. For a zesty twist, swap out the balsamic vinegar for lemon juice and add some zesty lemon zest. This brightens the dish and complements the roasted flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a tahini or yogurt-based dressing can add creaminess and a nutty element, balancing out the hearty lentils and grains.

If you're looking for a heartier option, you can replace quinoa or brown rice with farro, barley, or even a small pasta. Each option has its unique flavor and texture, contributing to a delightful and hearty meal. Just ensure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to achieve the best texture.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

One common issue when cooking lentils is not ensuring they have enough liquid. If your lentils absorb all the water before they're tender, simply add a splash of broth or water to continue cooking without burning them. Similarly, roasting vegetables too quickly can lead to uneven cooking; check them periodically to give those delicate veggies enough time to caramelize perfectly.

If your dressing feels too tangy, balance it out with a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. This can help round out the flavors and enhance the overall dish without overwhelming it. Additionally, make sure to taste as you go; it’s important to layer your seasoning to ensure every component of the bowl bursts with flavor!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe scales easily, whether you're cooking for a crowd or just one. Simply double or triple the quantities to fit your needs, keeping the same ratios for lentils, vegetables, and grains. If you're making a large batch, consider roasting the vegetables in two sheets to ensure even cooking and airflow—this prevents steaming and ensures the veggies get that lovely roasted flavor.

When scaling up, be prepared for slight variations in cooking times. Larger batches may benefit from an extra few minutes in the oven or on the stovetop, so keep an eye on everything. Adjust your flavors accordingly—larger batches might need an increase in seasoning to ensure they’re just as vibrant and satisfying as the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse and drain them, and add them to the bowl without cooking.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

You can use any seasonal vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or sweet potatoes. Just adjust the roasting time as needed.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly. Enjoy!