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 green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cooked whole grains (quinoa, farro, or brown rice); Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley, cilantro); Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating hearty bowls that are not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl has become a staple in my kitchen for its vibrant colors and the delightful combination of textures. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, while the lentils provide a satisfying protein boost. It's the perfect meal after a long day or a wonderful dish to serve during gatherings with friends and family.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:07:11.045Z

I remember the first time I tried a grain bowl, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of roasted veggies, lentils, and grains creates a symphony of flavors that warms my soul. I learned that roasting vegetables at a high temperature helps to caramelize their natural sugars, making them taste fantastic. A sprinkle of your favorite herbs just before serving elevates the dish even more.

As I continued perfecting this recipe, I discovered that adding a tangy vinaigrette really ties everything together, enhancing the freshness of the veggies. I like to play with seasonal vegetables, adjusting the recipe based on what's available. Each bowl feels like a celebration of the seasons!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful ingredients that make every bite exciting
Nutritious and filling, perfect for either lunch or dinner
Versatile - easily customizable with your favorite grains and veggies

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is the combination of lentils and whole grains. Lentils provide both protein and fiber, making them a superb choice for building a filling meal. Remember to rinse the lentils well before cooking to eliminate any debris and enhance their flavor. Whether you choose green or brown lentils, they will become tender and delicious after 20-25 minutes of simmering, making them the perfect base for this bowl.

Mixed seasonal vegetables add vibrant colors and create a variety of textures in the dish. Feel free to substitute the vegetables based on what is in season or what you have on hand. For instance, sweet potatoes, broccoli, or asparagus work beautifully as alternatives. Roasting the vegetables at high heat caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing their flavor. Look for them to end up golden and slightly crispy around the edges for the best texture.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Textures

To achieve the best results while cooking the lentils, ensure you maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil, as too much agitation can cause them to break apart. After cooking, draining the excess liquid is crucial; this helps prevent the lentils from becoming mushy. If you notice that they are too dry, adding a splash of vegetable broth can rejuvenate them.

When roasting the vegetables, remember to spread them out evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting. If you have a larger quantity of vegetables, consider using two baking sheets or roasting in batches. This allows for caramelization, contributing a lovely depth of flavor. You can also try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or minced garlic to the vegetable mix for an extra layer of taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked whole grains (quinoa, farro, or brown rice)
Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley, cilantro)
Lemon wedges for serving

Have everything ready to start assembling your delicious grain bowl!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly roasted and assembled grain bowl:

Prepare the Lentils

In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until lentils are tender yet firm. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer cooked grains on the bottom, followed by the lentils and roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.

Your Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Leftover grain bowls can be stored in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Roasted Veggie Lentil Grain Bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the lentils and roast the vegetables in advance, allowing you to assemble the bowl quickly throughout the week. Stored separately in airtight containers, the lentils can last in the fridge for up to a week, while roasted veggies maintain their best quality for about 3-4 days.

If you're planning to freeze, I recommend storing components separately to preserve their textures. Lentils can be frozen for up to three months, but thaw and reheat them gently to keep them firm. Roasted vegetables can also be frozen—just remember they'll be softer after thawing, but still delicious, especially when reheated in the oven for a short time.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For added creaminess, consider drizzling a tahini dressing or a dollop of yogurt over the assembled bowl. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can also add a delightful tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables. If you prefer a more substantial meal, topping with a poached or fried egg can elevate the dish further.

To mix things up, experiment with different grain bases. Farro offers a nutty flavor, while quinoa adds a light, fluffy texture. Alternatively, use brown rice for a chewy, hearty backbone. Each grain will bring its unique flavor profile, allowing for endless customization. You can also think about adding a protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken for an even heartier option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan! Just be sure the broth you use is vegetable-based.

→ How can I add more protein to this dish?

You can add chickpeas or another type of beans to boost the protein content.

→ What grains work best for this bowl?

Quinoa, farro, or brown rice all work great — choose your favorite!

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The grains and roasted veggies can be prepared in advance and assembled just before serving.