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; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots); 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Fresh parsley for garnish; 3 tablespoons tahini; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Water to thin; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love diving into a hearty bowl of my Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl. It's not only visually stunning with vibrant veggies, but it's also a nourishing meal packed full of flavor and texture. I recommend this dish for a nutritious lunch or dinner and guarantee you'll feel satisfied yet light after eating it. The combination of roasted vegetables, lentils, and grains creates a beautiful medley that is both healthy and fulfilling. Plus, it's a fantastic way to make use of seasonal produce!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:16:58.619Z

One evening, I was looking to create a dish that would use up all the leftover vegetables in my fridge. After a bit of experimentation, I came up with this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl. Roasting the vegetables really enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a delightful crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the soft, creamy lentils. I found that using spices like cumin and paprika makes all the difference, bringing the entire dish to life.

While adjusting my recipe, I discovered that adding a drizzle of tahini dressing just before serving intensifies the flavors. It’s that simple touch that elevates the dish from good to absolutely delicious! This bowl has become a staple in my kitchen, providing both health benefits and satisfaction.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful and nutritious ingredients that nourish the body
Versatile base that can adapt to various seasonal veggies
Comforting textures with every bite, perfect for meal prep

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When creating your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, the choice of mixed vegetables is essential for both flavor and nutrition. Colorful options like red bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots not only add visual appeal but also provide a spectrum of vitamins and minerals. Don’t shy away from using seasonal produce—think asparagus in spring or sweet potatoes in fall. This flexibility will enhance both the taste profile and nutritional value of your bowl.

To ensure even roasting, cut vegetables into uniform sizes. This allows them to cook at the same rate, resulting in consistent tenderness and caramelization. Keep an eye on the veggies while roasting; you're looking for a slight char around the edges, which adds depth to the flavor. If you prefer a softer texture, simply roast for a few extra minutes, but remember to check frequently to avoid overcooking.

Lentils: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Lentils are not just a key ingredient in this bowl; they are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Opt for brown or green lentils as they hold their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for this dish. If you're short on time, you can use canned lentils; just drain and rinse them before adding to your bowl. They offer a similar texture without the wait.

For a flavor boost, consider simmering the lentils in vegetable broth instead of water. This adds an extra layer of depth to your dish. Keep an eye on them as they cook—typically, lending a cook time of about 15-20 minutes will yield perfectly tender lentils. Be mindful not to overcook them; they should maintain their shape and not become mushy.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed warm or cold. If preparing for meal prep, divide the components into separate containers to maintain freshness. Keep the dressing in a small jar to drizzle just before serving; this prevents the grains from getting soggy. Stored correctly in the refrigerator, the individual components will last 4-5 days, making it an excellent option for weekly lunches.

For a creative twist, consider topping your bowl with avocado slices or a sprinkle of nuts for added healthy fats and crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, a poached egg on top can also deepen the flavor and add richness. Remember, the key to a great bowl is balancing textures and flavors, so don’t hesitate to experiment with various toppings based on your palate or what's available in your pantry.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious grain bowl!

For the Bowl

1 cup cooked lentils
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Tahini Dressing

3 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Water to thin
Salt to taste

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your grain bowl!

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.

Prepare the Lentils

If you haven't already, cook the lentils according to package instructions. They should be tender but still maintain their shape—about 15-20 minutes.

Make the Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Gradually add water until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa or brown rice, lentils, and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with tahini dressing and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any protein of choice, like grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make this a complete meal.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor of your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl, consider incorporating spices and herbs beyond the cumin and paprika. A pinch of chili flakes or za’atar can add warmth and complexity. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also provide a refreshing contrast to the roasted flavors. Mix and match to find your favorite combination; these small tweaks can transform your dish into something extraordinary.

Another tip for enhancing flavor is to let the roasted veggies cool slightly before assembling your bowl. This allows the sugars to caramelize fully, resulting in a rich, sweet flavor. If you’re using a store-bought tahini, be sure to check the label; some varieties have added flavors that might affect the overall taste of your dressing.

Adapting for Dietary Needs

This recipe is inherently vegetarian and can easily be made vegan with the tahini dressing, which is already dairy-free. If you're looking to add more protein, boneless chicken or grilled tofu can be great additions. Always cook meat or tofu separately and layer it on top when assembling to maintain the integrity of the bowl's components.

For gluten-sensitive individuals, using quinoa is a fantastic option, but ensure your grains are certified gluten-free. Alternatively, you can experiment with farro or millet for different textures and flavors without compromising dietary restrictions. These options keep the meal balanced while catering to various dietary preferences.

Scaling Up for Gatherings

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is easily scalable for gatherings or meal prep. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities to suit the number of servings needed. For larger groups, roasting veggies in batches may be necessary; avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. You can also prepare the lentils and quinoa in advance to save time on the day of your gathering.

Consider setting up a DIY bowl station for your guests. Provide a variety of toppings such as nuts, seeds, or different dressings. This interactive approach allows everyone to customize their bowl according to their preferences, creating a fun and engaging dining experience that encourages creativity and healthy eating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used and are great for this recipe! Just adjust the roasting time slightly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy cold.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the vegetables, cook the lentils, and prepare the dressing in advance. Assemble the bowl when ready to eat.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can use yogurt or a nut butter like almond or cashew butter as an alternative dressing.