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 mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, zucchini); 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 3 tablespoons tahini; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon water; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl when I want a healthy, filling meal that really warms my soul. The vibrant colors of the veggies and the hearty lentils create a nourishing dish that's packed with flavor. I often throw in whatever vegetables I have on hand, and the combination always turns out delicious. Plus, it's easy to meal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You won’t believe how simple it is to whip this up and how satisfying each bite is!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:07:13.891Z

When I first made this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, I didn’t expect it to become a staple in my meal rotation. The best part is the roasting process; it brings out the natural sweetness of the root vegetables, and the lentils add a wonderful texture. To make it even easier, I like to use pre-cooked lentils, which cooks down the overall time.

Another fun aspect is the versatility; you can top it with your favorite dressing or nuts for extra crunch. I often drizzle a tahini sauce over mine, which enhances the flavors and makes the dish even more nutritious. Each bowl feels like a warm hug on a plate!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for lunch or dinner
Bursting with flavors from roasted vegetables
Packed with protein and fiber for a healthy boost

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is undoubtedly the combination of lentils and roasted vegetables. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an ideal choice for a hearty meal. Opt for green or brown lentils, as they hold their shape well after cooking, ensuring a satisfying texture in your bowl.

When it comes to vegetables, you have the freedom to use what's in season or what's available in your fridge. Bell peppers add sweetness, while carrots contribute a subtle crunch. Zucchini brings moisture and flavor without overpowering, creating a harmonious blend. Feel free to substitute with seasonal produce like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts, adjusting the roasting time for denser vegetables.

Mastering the Roasting Technique

Roasting the vegetables is crucial for developing their flavor. Preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures they cook evenly, becoming tender while achieving those delicious caramelized edges. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for proper airflow, which helps them roast instead of steam. Keep an eye on them; you want a slightly charred appearance, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes.

Tossing the veggies in olive oil and spices before roasting helps create a golden, crispy exterior. The garlic powder and smoked paprika not only season the vegetables but also impart a subtle smokiness. Adjust the spice levels to your preference, and if you're a fan of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once prepared, this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl can be served warm, but it also makes a fantastic cold salad for meal prep. When storing, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the grains from becoming soggy. In the refrigerator, this dish can last up to four days, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

For a quick serving suggestion, consider topping the bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a burst of flavor and freshness. You can also incorporate a sprinkle of feta cheese or sliced avocado for additional creaminess. When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out in the microwave.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

For the Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Dressing (Optional)

3 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon water
Salt to taste

Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Veggies

Chop the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.

Season and Roast

Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked lentils and quinoa or brown rice. Once the vegetables are done, add them to the bowl and toss everything together.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, and salt until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.

Serve

Divide the mixture into bowls, drizzle with the dressing if using, and enjoy!

Feel free to customize this bowl with other toppings such as nuts, seeds, or avocado!

Pro Tips

Try adding different vegetables based on the season
sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts work wonderfully. Also, using leftovers makes this recipe incredibly easy.

Variations to Try

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. If you're looking to add more greens, consider roasting some kale or tossing in fresh spinach just before serving. For a more substantial grain base, swap out quinoa or brown rice for farro or barley, both of which add a nutty flavor and chewy texture to the bowl.

In addition to vegetables, you can enhance the protein content by adding chickpeas or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for creaminess. If you're in the mood for something different, try incorporating nuts or seeds for crunch. Toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds can elevate the dish, providing a delightful contrast in texture.

Cooking Lentils Perfectly

Cooking lentils might seem straightforward, but attention to detail is key. Rinse them under cold water prior to cooking to remove any debris. To cook, combine one cup of lentils with three cups of water or broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, covering the pot to retain moisture. Lentils typically cook in 20-25 minutes; you want them tender, but not mushy, maintaining a slight bite.

If using canned lentils for convenience, drain and rinse them before adding to the bowl, which will cut down on prep time. However, the texture and flavor of freshly cooked lentils are hard to beat—worth the extra time if you can manage it!

Tips for the Dressing

While the dressing is optional, it can elevate the dish significantly. Tahini provides a rich creaminess that balances the roasted flavors beautifully. If you find the tahini too thick, you can adjust the consistency with additional water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess. Taste and season accordingly with salt and lemon juice for brightness.

For a twist, consider adding a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey to the dressing for a hint of sweetness, which complements the earthy flavors of the lentils and vegetables. For those with nut allergies, swap out tahini for sunflower seed butter, which provides a similar texture and richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different grains?

Absolutely! You can substitute with couscous, farro, or any grain you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just make sure to use plant-based ingredients for the dressing.

→ Can I meal prep this bowl?

Yes, this bowl stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

→ What can I use instead of tahini?

You can replace tahini with almond or peanut butter for a different flavor profile.