Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme or oregano); 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I crave something nourishing yet vibrant, I always reach for my Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl. Each bite is packed with colorful roasted vegetables, wholesome lentils, and perfectly cooked grains, creating a comforting and delicious meal. It's versatile enough to work with whatever veggies are in season, keeping my kitchen adventures fresh and exciting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients to prevent waste. I can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it an easy weeknight winner in my home.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:52:17.264Z

Creating this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl was an exciting journey in culinary experimentation. I decided to roast a medley of vegetables and pair them with perfectly cooked lentils and grains. The roasting not only intensified their flavors but also gave them a delightful texture. Using a mix of seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini offered both color and taste that simply shines.

I had to highlight the balance of textures and flavors — from the crunchy roasted veggies to the nutty lentils. I recommend seasoning the vegetables with a splash of balsamic vinegar before roasting to deepen their natural sweetness. This little trick has transformed my veggie bowl into a dish I crave regularly!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful array of roasted vegetables adds depth to every bite
Nutrient-rich lentils and grains provide lasting energy
Versatile recipe that adapts to your personal veggie preferences

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl lies in its adaptability to seasonal produce. For best results, select vegetables that you enjoy and that complement each other well. Bell peppers add sweetness, while zucchini brings a slight crunch. Carrots can be swapped for sweeter options like butternut squash, or you might incorporate hearty greens like kale. This flexibility ensures each bowl remains vibrant and reflects what’s fresh at the market.

When prepping your vegetables, uniform cutting is key to achieving even roasting. Aim for pieces that are about half an inch thick. This size will caramelize beautifully while allowing the insides to cook thoroughly without becoming mushy. Remember, vegetables too small will dry out, while larger chunks may require longer cooking times, leading to inconsistencies.

Perfecting Your Grain Base

In this recipe, quinoa or brown rice serves as a nutrient-dense base that pairs perfectly with the roasted veggies and lentils. Cooking grains properly is essential—ensure you rinse quinoa beforehand to remove its bitter saponin coating. Cook it at a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio, simmering for about 15 minutes, or until the grains are fluffy and translucent. Brown rice requires a longer cooking time, around 40-45 minutes, ensuring you plan accordingly.

If you’re looking for alternatives, farro and bulgur are excellent choices that provide a delightful texture and unique flavor. Both grains can absorb the dressing well, adding another layer of taste to each bite. Feel free to mix and match as your pantry allows; using different grains can keep this bowl exciting every time.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 carrot, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme or oregano)

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the vegetables.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot. Drizzle with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then toss to coat.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Bowl

In individual bowls, layer cooked lentils, grains, and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Enjoy your vibrant and nourishing Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Adding avocado or nuts on top can boost the flavor and provide healthy fats!

Storage and Meal Prep

This grain bowl is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to whip up several servings in advance. Once assembled, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Keep the dressing separate until serving to avoid soggy grains and vegetables. This way, each meal retains its vibrant texture and flavors throughout the week.

If you're considering freezing portions, it's best to freeze the lentils and grain separately from the vegetables. This approach helps maintain the integrity of the roasted vegetables, which can become mushy when thawed. Lentils and grains can typically be frozen for up to three months. Just reheat them separately before mixing, and you've got a quick meal ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

While this bowl is delicious as is, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added burst of freshness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the dish beautifully. Crumbled feta or goat cheese can introduce a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the roasted veggies.

For a different flavor dimension, experiment with various dressings. A tahini-based dressing or a yogurt sauce can lend new flavors that might appeal to different palates. These variations can keep your bowls interesting while still ensuring that each bite is nourishing and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just rinse and drain them before adding to the bowl.

→ What other grains can I use?

You can substitute quinoa with farro, barley, or any grain you prefer.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this bowl?

Yes, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu would be great additions!