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 cooked lentils; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 2 cups assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, etc.); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how colorful and nutritious this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is. What makes it exciting is the combination of roasted vegetables, hearty lentils, and a touch of grains, bringing together diverse textures and flavors. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, as it keeps well in the fridge, allowing for delicious lunches throughout the week. Trust me, once you take that first bite, the umami flavors and the earthy goodness will have you coming back for more.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:40:02.446Z

I remember the first time I whipped up this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl. I had a bunch of leftover vegetables and wanted to create something filling yet healthy. The combination of different vegetables roasted to perfection, combined with protein-packed lentils, turned out to be a delightful surprise. I learned that roasting vegetables at a high temperature really brings out their natural sweetness, making the dish incredibly satisfying.

One tip I swear by is to mix and match seasonal veggies based on what you have at home. This not only keeps the dish interesting but also maximizes the nutrients you get with each bowl. You can add spices and herbs according to your tastes, making it versatile and adaptable to whichever cravings you have.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A vibrant mix of textures and flavors in every bite
Packed with protein and nutrients for a wholesome meal
Great for meal prep or cozy weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl serves a distinct purpose, contributing to both flavor and nutrition. Lentils provide a powerhouse of plant-based protein, making this dish a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. They also lend a hearty texture that balances well with the roasted vegetables. Quinoa, on the other hand, not only adds a subtle nutty flavor but also offers gluten-free benefits and essential amino acids, enhancing the dish's nutritional profile.

The vegetables you choose for roasting can significantly influence the taste and texture of the bowl. Bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots are fantastic options due to their natural sweetness and great caramelization properties when roasted. Feel free to substitute with seasonal vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, to keep the dish vibrant and fresh throughout the year. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on thickness, so chop accordingly.

Perfecting the Roasting Technique

Roasting is a key step that elevates the flavors in this grain bowl. When preparing the vegetables, aim to cut them into uniform pieces—about 1-inch cubes work well for even cooking. This way, they'll roast consistently, achieving that tender and slightly caramelized finish. I recommend keeping a close eye on them toward the end of the cooking time; you want them to be golden and fragrant without crossing into burnt territory.

Another tip for perfect roasted veggies is to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If the vegetables are too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast, which can prevent that beautiful caramelization. If you're working with a large quantity, consider using two sheets or roasting in batches to ensure that each piece gets its fair share of heat and space.

Ingredients

For the Grain Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup cooked quinoa
2 cups assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, etc.)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

Chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them on a baking sheet.

Season and Roast

Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat and spread them evenly. Roast for about 25 minutes, or until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked lentils and quinoa. Once the vegetables are roasted, fold them into the grain mixture.

Serve

Divide into bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and enjoy your vibrant grain bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the grains or vegetables based on your preference or what's available in your pantry. For added flavor, consider incorporating a drizzle of tahini or a squeeze of lemon right before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare the grains and lentils in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Similarly, the roasted vegetables are best enjoyed within three days, but their texture and flavor will still hold up well. To reheat, simply toss the ingredients in a skillet on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or warm in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the roasted vegetables and cooked grains separately. They can be stored in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and then reheat according to your preferred method. This way, you can have a hearty meal on hand whenever you need it.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

The beauty of the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is its versatility. You can customize each bowl by adding toppings such as sliced avocado, a dollop of hummus, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for some creaminess. Another delicious option is to drizzle a balsamic reduction or tahini dressing just before serving, enhancing the flavors with a tangy punch.

Feel free to experiment with different grains if you're looking for variety. Farro or bulgur wheat can make excellent alternatives to quinoa, providing a unique taste and texture to the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes when seasoning the vegetables can elevate the flavor further, giving the bowl an exciting twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils?

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

→ What other vegetables work well?

Feel free to use any vegetables you like! Broccoli, sweet potatoes, or spinach also make great additions.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn’t contain any animal products.

→ How long does this keep in the fridge?

The bowl can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just keep the grains and vegetables separate if you want to maintain their textures.