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 (green or brown); 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini); 1 cup cooked quinoa; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons tahini; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon maple syrup; Water as needed to thin

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating vibrant and nourishing meals, and this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl truly hits the mark. Packed with flavor from the roasted vegetables and the nuttiness of lentils, it's a dish that makes me feel good inside and out. The best part? It comes together in just over 30 minutes! Whether served warm or cold, this bowl is a versatile choice for any meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple in your weekly rotation.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:22:16.227Z

When I first made this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, I was inspired by the simplicity of roasted vegetables combined with nutrient-dense lentils. Baking them brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors, and I always ensure to toss them with a touch of olive oil and my favorite herbs. It’s amazing how a little seasoning can elevate the dish so much!

Over time, I've learned to customize the bowl based on seasonal vegetables, which keeps it fresh and exciting each time. Recently, I added some roasted sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness, and it took the entire dish to another level. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different grains or toppings; that’s part of the fun!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Healthy and filling with a perfect balance of protein and fiber
Colorful and inviting presentation that’s feast for the eyes
Easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences or what's in season

      

Maximizing Flavor Through Roasting

Roasting vegetables not only enhances their sweetness but also adds a depth of flavor that can elevate your dish significantly. When preparing your vegetables for the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking. I recommend keeping them around an inch in size, which allows them to caramelize beautifully without becoming mushy. Look for that slightly crispy, golden edge as your cue that they are perfectly roasted.

For additional smoky flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to your vegetable mix before roasting. These spices can complement the nuttiness of the lentils and enhance the overall savoriness of the bowl. If you’re using heartier vegetables like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, they may require a few extra minutes in the oven, so keep a close eye on them to avoid charred bits that might detract from their natural sweetness.

Understanding the Dressing

The tahini dressing plays a crucial role in tying all the elements of the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl together. Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, adds rich creaminess while contributing a nutty flavor. When mixing the dressing, start with a smaller amount of water to control the consistency. You can always add more to thin it out, but if it gets too runny, it won’t cling to the vegetables and grains effectively.

Feel free to customize the dressing according to your palate. For a zesty kick, add a small minced garlic clove or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, swap lemon juice for apple cider vinegar for a tangier flavor. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter can be substituted for tahini—it has a similar texture and can provide the creaminess you desire without the nuts.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. You can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger group or to have leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week. When storing, keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the bowl. The roasted vegetables can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, but avoid freezing them as the texture can become mushy upon thawing.

Experimenting with different types of grains can also add variety. Barley or farro can be used in place of quinoa for a chewier texture. Feel free to toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale to boost the nutritional value, or even add a protein source such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra heartiness. These small adjustments can completely transform the dish while keeping it fresh and exciting!

Ingredients

For the Grain Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
1 cup cooked quinoa
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon maple syrup
Water as needed to thin

Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand!

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces, then place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Roast the Veggies

Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and enough water to achieve your desired consistency. Set aside.

Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked lentils, quinoa, and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with the tahini dressing before serving.

Serve warm or refrigerate for a refreshing cold meal later!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, top with toasted nuts or seeds. This bowl also makes a great meal prep option, as it keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Tips for Cooking Lentils

Cooking lentils is straightforward, but resist the urge to overcook them. Green and brown lentils typically take about 20–25 minutes to become tender but still hold their shape. If you overcook them, they will turn mushy, which is not desirable for a grain bowl. Rinse them thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris, and consider simmering them with bay leaves or garlic for added flavor.

If you're short on time, using pre-cooked or canned lentils is a great shortcut. Just rinse and heat them up before adding them to your bowl. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a nutritious base ready to go when assembling your meal.

Storage and Reheating

To store the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, portion out your ingredients into airtight containers. The roasted vegetables, lentils, and quinoa can each be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze portions for later, do so without the dressing to prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, you can reheat the bowl in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or enjoy it cold as a refreshing salad.

For those looking to keep it fresh, consider adding fresh ingredients like herbs or avocado just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful contrast in texture, making each bite more enjoyable.

Presentation Tips

Presentation can enhance your dining experience, even for simple meals. When assembling your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, consider using a variety of colors and textures. Layering the ingredients with the lentils on the bottom, then quinoa, followed by the roasted veggies, will create a visually appealing dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top can add vibrant color and fresh flavor.

Additionally, using a wide, shallow bowl rather than a deep one allows for more surface area and makes it easy to see all the beautiful ingredients. To elevate the dish even further, add a sprinkle of seeds or nuts on top for crunch and an extra layer of nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Absolutely! You can use red, black, or even French lentils. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice.

→ Can I prepare this bowl ahead of time?

Yes! The vegetables, lentils, and quinoa can be prepped in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for tahini in the dressing?

You can use Greek yogurt for a creamy alternative or peanut butter for a different flavor profile.